Definition

In a way that causes discomfort or anxiety.

Example

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

Conversation

Did you watch that documentary last night?

Yeah, it was really interesting but also unsettlingly intense.

I know, right? The way they described the events was just shocking.

Absolutely, it stayed with me long after it ended.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsettlingly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "settle" (from Old French *setler*, meaning to place or establish), and "-ingly" (a suffix used to form adverbs). The word "unsettlingly" means in a manner that does not establish a sense of comfort or stability.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') allowing something to be 'established' ('settle') — that's why unsettlingly describes a way that disrupts comfort.

Visually Confused Words