disruptive

adjective

dis·​rup·​tive dis-ˈrəp-tiv 

: disrupting or tending to disrupt some process, activity, condition, etc. : causing or tending to cause disruption

a disruptive weather pattern

It is hoped that, if the child learns that disruptive behavior brings no rewards, his tantrums will diminish and perhaps stop.

—Susan Sheehan

In recent years, airlines began to carry plastic handcuffs as a way to restrain disruptive passengers.

—Erik Holm

Other teammates marvel at how easily he morphs from a mild-mannered family man in the locker room into a disruptive force on the field.

—Jefri Chadiha

disruptively adverb

acting disruptively

disruptiveness noun

… the disruptiveness of climatic change will depend strongly on the rate of change.

—Roger Revelle

Examples of disruptive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Overton already excels as a run-stopper, and can be disruptive as a pass-rusher, but his approach to rushing the passer needs polish. —Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Dec. 2025

The report also indicated, per Shams Charania’s sources, that the Clippers felt Paul’s vocal style of holding players, coaches, and management accountable had become disruptive. —Matthew Couden, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2025

Just be prepared for the noisy wash cycle to be a little disruptive for about 30 seconds or so. —Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Dec. 2025

There are disruptive brands and people out there. —Belinda Luscombe, Time, 4 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disruptive

• eruptive

Medical Definition

disruptive

adjective

dis·​rup·​tive dis-ˈrəp-tiv 

: characterized by psychologically disorganized behavior

a confused, incoherent, and disruptive patient in the manic phase