unease

noun

un·​ease ˌən-ˈēz How to pronounce unease (audio)
: mental or spiritual discomfort: such as
a
: vague dissatisfaction : misgiving
c
: lack of ease (as in social relations) : embarrassment

Examples of unease in a Sentence

A feeling of unease came over her. They noticed increasing signs of unease among the workers.
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.
The brief spasm, though, betrays an unease in the incredibly slim majority Johnson controls and the volatility in his base. Philip Elliott, Time, 8 Sep. 2025 That sense of unease has grown more in recent years, as shifting immigration policies fuel confusion about what protections still exist. David Rodriguez Muñoz, Freep.com, 7 Sep. 2025 Mike’s journey in the film is one of abnegation and humility, which Arbery (and, presumably, Gavras) might suggest is one way to deal with the ever-mounting apocalyptic unease that has gripped much of the world of late. Richard Lawson, HollywoodReporter, 7 Sep. 2025 But the joy of the annual celebration came with an undercurrent of unease this year. Danya Gainor, CNN Money, 7 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unease

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Cite this Entry

“Unease.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unease. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

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