unrest

noun

un·​rest ˌən-ˈrest How to pronounce unrest (audio)
: a disturbed or uneasy state : turmoil

Examples of unrest in a Sentence

The country has experienced years of civil unrest. unrest gripped the city as the people nervously awaited the expected bombardment
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So, audiences are in for a special treat Friday as the organization returns to its Los Angeles roots to uplift local artistry and, hopefully, foster community within the city after several years of ongoing strife from fires and labor strikes to social unrest and economic hardship. Katie Campione, Deadline, 1 Aug. 2025 According to local lore, the half-mile tunnel was conceived less for convenience than for security, built during a time of civil unrest. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 29 July 2025 Those include mobile-order wait times, labor unrest and stiff competition, particularly in its important growth market of China. Paulina Likos, CNBC, 28 July 2025 And while many of the islands live up to that image, recent U.S. travel advisories have raised concerns for travelers—with U.S. travel advisories citing rising crime, civil unrest, and limited health care. Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for unrest

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unrest was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unrest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unrest. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

unrest

noun
un·​rest ˌən-ˈrest How to pronounce unrest (audio)
ˈən-
: lack of rest : a disturbed or uneasy state : turmoil

More from Merriam-Webster on unrest

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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