perturbed
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /pərˈtɜːrbd/
KK: /pərˈtɜrbd/
adjective
Definition
Feeling anxious or upset due to something that has caused a disturbance or confusion.
Example
She was perturbed by the unexpected news about her job.
Conversation
I felt really perturbed after that conversation with Sarah.
Oh no, what happened?
She just kept interrupting me, and it was frustrating.
I can see why that would leave you feeling perturbed.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
agitated
troubled
unsettled
Antonyms
calm
composed
unperturbed
verb
Definition
To cause someone to feel anxious, worried, or disturbed.
Example
The unexpected news perturbed her greatly, making it hard for her to concentrate.
Tense Forms
Past: perturbed
Past Participle: perturbed
Conversation
I was a bit perturbed by the news I heard today.
Really? What happened?
My friend said she might move away, and it caught me off guard.
Root Explanation
Perturbed is formed from "per-" (meaning through or completely) and "turbare" (meaning to disturb or confuse). The word describes a state of being completely disturbed or unsettled.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'completely disturbed' — 'per-' means through or completely, and 'turbare' means to disturb.
Visually Confused Words
unperturbed
imperturbed
apertured
perjured
aperture
unperturbedly