Definitions

disturbing

[dih-stur-bing] / dɪˈstɜr bɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

disquieting

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alarming annoying bothersome creepy depressing disconcerting discouraging distressing embarrassing frightening irritating ominous painful perplexing sinister startling threatening troublesome troubling unpleasant unsettling upsetting vexing worrisome worrying

STRONG

aggravating agitating discommoding discomposing dismaying foreboding harassing impeding perturbing provoking trying

WEAK

burdensome consequential difficult disagreeable discomforting gloomy hard inconvenient irksome laborious onerous pessimistic prophetic severe tiresome toilsome uncertain wearisome

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreeable auspicious comforting delightful easy encouraging good happy helpful nice pleasant pleasing

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.

After a long decline spanning decades, the share of teens working summer jobs is expected to hit a record low this year — a disturbing trend that can have ominous repercussions for their future earnings.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

Amen’s conviction shifted, however, after he discovered a disturbing magazine that apparently belonged to Jackson in Cascio’s possession.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

While some described the former Marine as a kind and supportive partner, others detailed disturbing conduct.

From Slate • Jun. 5, 2026

In a report published on Friday, the public accounts committee said its findings were "disturbing" and government was "at considerable risk of repeating past failures" as it tried to tackle the problems.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

“Garth. You’ve been acting strangely lately. You never got into trouble at all until two weeks ago. Now you’re shooting rubber bands at people and disturbing the entire class. Can you tell me why?”

From "The World According to Humphrey" by Betty G. Birney

Vocabulary lists containing disturbing

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