Definition

An event or situation that interrupts normal conditions or causes a change, often leading to confusion or disorder.

Example

The loud noise outside caused a disturbance in the classroom.

Conversation

Did you hear about the disturbance at the park yesterday?

Yeah, I saw it on the news; it sounded pretty chaotic.

I wonder what caused such a big disturbance in the first place.

Maybe it was just a loud event, but it definitely got everyone's attention.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disturbance → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "turbare" (meaning to disturb or throw into confusion). The word "disturbance" refers to the act of causing disorder or interruption, effectively throwing something into a state of confusion or disarray.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'thrown apart' ('dis-') and 'confused' ('turbare') — that's why disturbance means causing disorder or interruption.

Visually Confused Words