Definitions

unrest

[uhn-rest] / ʌnˈrɛst /

NOUN

state of agitation; disturbance

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anarchy anxiety confusion controversy crisis discontent discord dissension insurrection protest rebellion strife tension trouble tumult turmoil uproar

STRONG

altercation annoyance bickering bother chagrin change contention debate disaffection disease disquiet dissatisfaction distress dither ennui grief irritation malaise moodiness mortification perplexity perturbation quarrel restlessness sedition sorrow tizzy unease uneasiness upset vexation worry

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreement approval calm calmness composure contentedness contentment ease happiness harmony order peace

STRONG

comfort delight health joy pleasure

WEAK

rest

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The unrest began in December 2018, when Bashir introduced austerity measures to address a deepening economic crisis.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

The unrest has been driven in part by stark pay disparities between states, highlighted by neighbouring Haryana's recent 35% increase in minimum wages following similar demonstrations.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

This comes just as they see investors growing increasingly optimistic about a deal to end the Middle East unrest.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

Those uprisings, later coined the Arab Spring, succeeded in bringing about a short democratic sojourn in Tunisia and a much briefer one in Egypt, but they also unleashed unrest.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

About President Snow, the unrest in the districts.

From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins

Vocabulary lists containing unrest

This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for March 25–March 31, 2023

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Lesson 4

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This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 26–December 2, 2022

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