discomfort

1 of 2

noun

1

: mental or physical uneasiness : annoyance

2

archaic : distress, grief

discomfort

2 of 2

verb

dis·​com·​fort dis-ˈkəm(p)-fərt 

discomforted; discomforting; discomforts

transitive verb

1

: to make uncomfortable or uneasy

2

archaic : dismay sense 1

discomfortable

dis-ˈkəm(p)-fər-tə-bəl 

-ˈkəm(p)f-tər-bəl

adjective

Synonyms

Verb

• concern
• worry
• bother
• alarm
• disturb
• distract
• anger
• distress
• upset
• disquiet
• plague
• unsettle

Examples of discomfort in a Sentence

Noun

The patient is still experiencing some discomfort.

These new developments are being watched with discomfort by many of our allies.

Verb

the harsh criticism of his musical talent did not discomfort him in the least

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This discomfort typically peaks within 24 to 48 hours and subsides within three to five days, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 13 Sep. 2025

Parents who hover too closely — always ready to smooth the path, to shield from discomfort — may unintentionally rob their children of the chance to develop resilience. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025

Gizeh Birko-Flor Sandals The Gizeh Birkenstock sandals offer the look of a thong sandal without the discomfort that comes with it—along with much more support. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 12 Sep. 2025

Temporary discomfort during the exam is the main side effect. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 12 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English, from Anglo-French descomforter, from des- dis- + comforter to comfort

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for discomfort

• comfort

Kids Definition

discomfort

1 of 2 verb

dis·​com·​fort dis-ˈkəm(p)-fərt 

: to make uncomfortable or uneasy : distress

discomfort

2 of 2 noun

: physical or mental uneasiness