troubled

adjective

trou·​bled ˈtrə-bəld How to pronounce troubled (audio)
Synonyms of troublednext
1
a
: concerned, worried
troubled feelings about the decision
b
: exhibiting emotional or behavioral problems
a program for troubled youth
2
: characterized by or indicative of trouble
our troubled cities
troubled times
a gray and troubled sky

Examples of troubled in a Sentence

She seemed troubled about something. These have been troubled times.
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.
Her top priorities include creating more affordable housing and fixing the city’s troubled permitting system. Miami Herald, 19 Dec. 2025 Wealthy families aren't much troubled by rising prices, and continue to spend freely, Waller said. Scott Horsley, NPR, 18 Dec. 2025 That designation sparked one of the more comprehensive programs DNR has attempted to rehabilitate a troubled species, Gillet said. Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 17 Dec. 2025 California halted a $30 million e-bike voucher program after a troubled rollout, a decision criticized by Sacramento residents who received bikes. Hannah Ruhoff, Sacbee.com, 17 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for troubled

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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

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Cite this Entry

“Troubled.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/troubled. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.

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