UNREST Synonyms: 46 Similar and Opposite Words

unrest

noun

ˌən-ˈrest

Definition of unrest

as in turmoil

a disturbed or uneasy state unrest gripped the city as the people nervously awaited the expected bombardment his stomach unrest was just a sign of stage fright

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of unrest His appointment is seen as a sign that the leadership is intent on preventing any new unrest as discontent over the economy spreads. — Lee Keath, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026 The unrest comes as authorities tighten control over its uranium sector, having seized ⁠assets from France’s Orano. — Reuters, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026 Modern Times in Minneapolis removed prices from its menu after unrest from Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests and shootings this year roiled the city. — Whitney Eulich, Christian Science Monitor, 29 Aug. 2026 That march, an inflection point in the Civil Rights Movement, came at a fraught moment for the country, when economic headwinds, civil unrest, political division and the Vietnam War bitterly divided Americans. — Matt Brown, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unrest

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unrest

turmoil

Noun

Syria’s leaders are now positioning the country to benefit from a resurgence of regional turmoil.

— Jesse Marks, Foreign Affairs, 31 Aug. 2026
Geopolitical turmoil, including war in the Middle East and US import tariffs, has brought urgency to an issue Icelanders have debated on and off for decades.

— CNN Money, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026