unease

noun

un·​ease ˌən-ˈēz How to pronounce unease (audio)
: mental or spiritual discomfort: such as
a
: vague dissatisfaction : misgiving
c
: lack of ease (as in social relations) : embarrassment

Examples of unease in a Sentence

A feeling of unease came over her. They noticed increasing signs of unease among the workers.
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.
The event itself has become a subject of unease among journalists and others who question the optics of the press mingling with high-profile government officials at a swanky soiree. Theresa Braine, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 The dismissal is a surprise given the timing, but multiple league sources expected Memphis to make changes this offseason due to growing discontent between Jenkins and the players, unease among his assistants, and differing visions between Jenkins and the front office on how to play. Kelly Iko, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025 Helping burnish gold’s allure of late is investor unease about President Donald Trump’s tariffs, which potentially could fuel inflation and hinder economic growth. Larry Light, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Come the first signs of spring every year, I’m hit with a strange sense of unease. Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unease

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Cite this Entry

“Unease.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unease. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unease

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