restlessness

American  

[rest-lis-nis] / ˈrɛst lɪs nɪs /

noun

1. the inability to remain still or at rest, or a mood characterized by this.

   To overcome younger students’ restlessness and anxiety, one expert suggests class routines, role play activities, and other calming exercises.

2. the fact of being unable to sleep or find a comfortable position in which to sleep.

   I haven't been sleeping so well lately—a mix of restlessness and staying up too late watching movies.

3. discontent or dissatisfaction that drives one to keep looking for solutions, alternatives, or new things.

   We are incomplete beings yearning to be made whole, dogged by a sense of unease and restlessness.

4. perpetual movement.

   Growing up on the coast of Sydney as he did, his music is influenced by the restlessness of the ocean.

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Etymology

Origin of restlessness

restless ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

By filtering such a common feeling through a strange and delightfully unsettling narrative lens, “By Design” contends with our modern restlessness in far more memorable fashion than many big-budget, big-idea films of the last year.

From Salon • Feb. 18, 2026

And while her work is animated by a feverish restlessness, it’s remarkable how consistent and inimitable her artistry remained over three quarters of a century.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025

Depression was assessed through a questionnaire asking about depressed mood, disinterest, restlessness or lethargy during the previous two weeks.

From Science Daily • Nov. 17, 2025

Didion, who spent a short time during her childhood on Army bases with her enlisted father, watched movies to fend off her restlessness.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2025

A deep restlessness was on him as he went back to Hardin's Tower for Ghost.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin

Related Words

• agitation
• anxiety
• disquiet
• ferment
• insomnia
• instability
• jitters
• nervousness
• uneasiness