troubling

adjective

trou·​bling ˈtrə-b(ə-)liŋ 

: causing feelings of worry or anxiety

a troubling news report

It's not just trauma survivors who may be distracted or derailed by shocking or troubling material …

—Angus Johnston

troublingly adverb

Synonyms of troubling

• disturbing
• unsettling
• frightening

Examples of troubling in a Sentence

the most troubling sign of all is that he's stopped returning my phone calls

Recent Examples on the Web

Gabriela Diaz has worked in Weld County as a victim's advocate for many years, and said the services her peers provide to those during troubling times are vital. —Dillon Thomas, CBS News, 16 Dec. 2025

But there’s something troubling Marge (Matilda Lawler), who’s had an especially upsetting run-in with the clown. —Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 15 Dec. 2025

But calls for unity have been undermined by several troubling incidents. —Charlie Campbell, Time, 15 Dec. 2025

Considering heart attacks are the leading cause of death for American women, here’s what to know about this troubling phenomenon and how to reduce your risk during the holidays. —Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 15 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for troubling

• bubbling
• doubling
• redoubling