Definition

In a way that causes anxiety or discomfort; to a disturbing extent.

Example

The movie was unnervingly realistic, making the audience feel uneasy.

Conversation

Did you see that new horror movie last night?

Yeah, it was unnervingly realistic!

I know, right? It felt like it could actually happen.

Exactly! That's what made it so creepy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unnervingly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "nervous" (from Latin "nervosus", meaning sinewy or vigorous) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word describes something that is not just nervous but does so in a manner that is unsettling or disturbing.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'nervous' to describe something that makes you feel uneasy or disturbed.

Visually Confused Words