Synonyms of restless

restless

adjective

ˈrest-ləs 

1

as in uneasy

lacking or denying rest

the worried mother spent a restless night, tossing and turning in bed for hours

Synonyms & Similar Words

• uneasy
• troubled
• unsettled
• anxious
• restive
• agitated
• unquiet
• unrestful
• disturbed
• tense
• nervous
• perturbed
• fidgety
• worried
• distressed
• upset
• uptight
• jumpy
• jittery
• edgy
• dithery
• nervy
• aflutter
• het up
• hung up

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• quiet
• easy
• calm
• restful
• peaceful
• tranquil
• relaxing

2

as in anxious

marked by or causing agitation or uncomfortable feelings

the figure skater was visibly restless as she waited for her scores to be posted

Synonyms & Similar Words

• uneasy
• anxious
• disturbing
• tense
• nervous
• unsettling
• agitating
• distressful
• creepy
• distressing
• unnerving
• fraught
• disquieting
• worrisome
• hairy
• troublesome
• strained
• nerve-racking
• embarrassing
• nail-biting
• bothersome
• awkward
• restive
• discouraging
• foreboding
• unrestful
• disheartening
• misgiving

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• quiet
• comfortable
• easy
• peaceful
• tranquil
• restful
• calming
• quieting
• pacific

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of restless

The episode served as a wake-up call for Bernthal, who got sober, began therapy, took anger management classes, and resolved to channel his volcanic temper and restless energy into his acting work. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 16 July 2026

Between a home with three young children and a pediatric clinic crowded with restless kids, the noise at times felt relentless. — Dana Suskind, Time, 14 July 2026

From the volatile peaks of Mount Etna to the restless Phlegraean Fields near Naples, understanding these unique gas signatures is important for assessing volcanic hazard. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026

The denial was a hit to Wilber’s spirit, but Yadira tried to calm the restless teenager. — Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026