unsettle
verb (used with object)
to alter from a settled state; cause to be no longer firmly fixed or established; render unstable; disturb.
unsettling
-
present participleof unsettle.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Continued melting could also gradually transform the island's unsettling appearance.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 2, 2026
More unsettling still is Myshkin’s response; instead of defending his convictions, he offers nothing but an abrupt, quiet resignation: “Goodbye, then.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2026
The level of coverage Harry and Meghan get is unsettling and, at times, irritating for the Royal Family.
From BBC ● Oct. 24, 2026
Deviation from that storyline can be unsettling; repeat any denial often enough and it can, to some, begin to feel sincere.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 22, 2026
The fourth wall was more of a museum, they supposed, but the fact that they weren’t sure was unsettling.
From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman
