# restlessness

/ˈɹɛstɫəsnəs/ (US) · /ɹˈɛstləsnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/restlessness
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a feeling of being unable to stay still or relax. It often makes you want to move or do something, even if you are tired.

For teachers: a state of physical or mental unease that prevents relaxation or rest. Often associated with an inability to remain in one place or a constant desire for change.

## Examples

- The long flight made him feel restless and tired.
- After working in the same office for ten years, she felt a growing restlessness and decided to look for a new job.
- The protagonist's restlessness is a central theme of the novel, driving him to seek out distant lands despite the comfort and security of his current home.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.