Unsettle

To disturb the stability or tranquility of something; to cause mental or emotional discomfort, confusion, or anxiety. Unsettling events or situations can lead to a sense of insecurity or doubt, affecting an individual's peace of mind. The term often implies a disruption of the normal state of affairs, leaving one in a state of uncertainty or unrest.

Unsettle meaning with examples

• When she received an unexpected call in the middle of the night, it managed to unsettle her, leaving her tossing and turning for hours, worried about the possible implications of the conversation.
• The sudden news of the company's bankruptcy unsettled the employees, leading to a tense atmosphere in the office where everyone feared for their job security and future.
• His unsettling revelations about the project sparked a debate among the team members, creating divisions and uncertainties about the best way to proceed moving forward.
• The documentary on climate change was deeply unsettling for many viewers, prompting them to reassess their lifestyle choices and consider their impact on the environment.
• During the meeting, the manager's critical remarks about the team's performance noticeably unsettled several members, causing them to doubt their abilities and feel anxious about forthcoming evaluations.