unnerve
verb (used with object)
to deprive of courage, strength, determination, or confidence; upset.
have unnerved
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present perfectof unnerve.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Frequent and strongly worded verbal interventions by the White House have unnerved futures-market participants,” said Johnston in a Thursday Substack newsletter.
From MarketWatch ● Apr. 24, 2026
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday said that fighting “could be six, it could be eight” weeks long, which may have unnerved oil traders about the length of the war.
From Barron's ● Mar. 5, 2026
This might have unnerved some investors who remained concerned about an uncertain outlook into the end of the year, Brooks said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 1, 2025
Daniel Ek’s investments in AI dronemaker Helsing have unnerved artists.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2025
Within his own Cabinet there was dissension that would have unnerved a less steady man.
From The New Nation by William E. Dodd
