Disturb
/dɪˈstɜːb/noun
To interrupt the normal condition or functioning of something; to upset or agitate.
Did you know?Its deepest roots are tied to the Latin idea of turning a thing into a whirl or commotion, which is why related words like turbid still carry that muddy, stirred-up energy.
Etymological Timeline
Latin (classical)
Latin
disturbāre
“to throw into disorder, confuse, disarrange”
Late Latin
Latin
disturbare
“to disturb, break up, disperse”
Old French
Old French
destourber
“to trouble, hinder, interrupt”
Middle English
English
distourben
“to trouble, agitate, interrupt”
Modern English
English
disturb
“to interrupt the normal order or calm of something”