disturbance
noun
dis·tur·bance
di-ˈstər-bən(t)s
plural disturbances
1
: the act of disturbing someone or something : the state of being disturbed: such as
a
: an interruption of a state of peace, quiet, or calm
His choler rose in proportion to the surprise, and, perhaps, to the disturbance of his repose.—Sir Walter Scott
… a caller reported loud music causing a disturbance …—Saugus (Massachusetts) Advertiser
They were charged with disturbance of the peace.
b(1)
: an interference with or alteration in a planned, ordered, or usual procedure, state, or habit
He was still suffering from this sudden disturbance of the quiet routine of his life.—Arthur Conan Doyle
Impacts inflicted by mining … include … disturbance of wildlife habitat …—Todd Wilkinson
(2)
: a moving out of place
Bruce was particular about his things and would notice any slight disturbance to his stuff …—Tegan Quin
These latter circumstances … may, I think, be accounted for, by the disturbance of the mud at the bottom of the sea …—Charles Darwin
c
: a departure from a norm or standard : a deviation, disruption, or impairment in form, function, or activity
sleep disturbances
endocrine disturbances
Once identified as having an emotional disturbance with associated behavior problems, it's considered best practice for the child to get a behavior intervention plan …—Patrick Skahil and David Desroches
Identifying coronavirus' economic effects combined with other major economic disturbances requires accurate data …—Bruce Yandle
2
: noisy or violent activity : commotion
Police responding to complaints of a loud disturbance in a parking lot … found 15 to 20 teenagers gathered …—R. Robin McDonald
3
: a local variation from the average or normal wind conditions
Cite this Entry
“Disturbance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disturbance. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.
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