# unsettled

/ənˈsɛtəɫd/ (US) · /ʌnsˈɛtəld/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unsettled
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

feeling worried, nervous, or not quite right. You use this when something makes you feel less calm or safe than before.

For teachers: characterised by a lack of stability, calm, or certainty. Often describes a psychological state of anxiety or a physical environment that is prone to change.

## Examples

- The strange news left her feeling very unsettled.
- The stock market remained unsettled throughout the week as investors waited for the latest inflation data.
- The sudden departure of the CEO created an unsettled atmosphere within the company, leading many senior staff members to reconsider their long-term commitment to the firm.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows linking verbs such as 'feel', 'seem', or 'remain'.

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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.