discomfort

1 of 2

noun

Synonyms of discomfortnext
1
: mental or physical uneasiness : annoyance
2
archaic : distress, grief

discomfort

2 of 2

verb

dis·​com·​fort dis-ˈkəm(p)-fərt How to pronounce discomfort (audio)
discomforted; discomforting; discomforts

transitive verb

1
: to make uncomfortable or uneasy
2
archaic : dismay sense 1
discomfortable
dis-ˈkəm(p)-fər-tə-bəl How to pronounce discomfort (audio)
-ˈkəm(p)f-tər-bəl
adjective

Synonyms of discomfort

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Verb

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of discomfort in a Sentence

Noun The patient is still experiencing some discomfort. These new developments are being watched with discomfort by many of our allies. Verb the harsh criticism of his musical talent did not discomfort him in the least
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Noun
This can result in blood pooling in the legs, causing discomfort, swelling or a heavy feeling. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 9 July 2026 People are prepared to have some discomfort on their holiday. — Patrick Oppmann, CNN Money, 6 July 2026 On that note, resist the urge to bury discomfort by indulging, shopping or being stubbornly silent. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 8 July 2026 But, for older men with no pain or discomfort, doctors may suggest watchful waiting, delaying surgery until the need is clear. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for discomfort

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English, from Anglo-French descomforter, from des- dis- + comforter to comfort

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of discomfort was in the 14th century

Rhymes for discomfort

See All Rhymes for discomfort

Browse Nearby Words

discomfiture
discomfort
discomfortable
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discomfort.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discomfort. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

discomfort

1 of 2 verb
dis·​com·​fort dis-ˈkəm(p)-fərt How to pronounce discomfort (audio)
: to make uncomfortable or uneasy : distress

discomfort

2 of 2 noun
: physical or mental uneasiness

More from Merriam-Webster on discomfort

Nglish: Translation of discomfort for Spanish Speakers

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