disturb

/dɪˈstɜːb/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: disturbs

Sense 1

Meaning · English

to confuse a quiet, constant state or a calm, continuous flow, in particular: thoughts, actions or liquids.

Verb

Examples

The noisy ventilation disturbed me during the exam.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

to divert, redirect, or alter by disturbing.

Verb

Examples

A mudslide disturbed the course of the river.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “disturb” mean?

to confuse a quiet, constant state or a calm, continuous flow, in particular: thoughts, actions or liquids.

Is “disturb” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.