discomfort

1 of 2

noun

Synonyms of discomfortnext
1
: mental or physical uneasiness : annoyance
2
archaic : distress, grief

discomfort

2 of 2

verb

dis·​com·​fort dis-ˈkəm(p)-fərt How to pronounce discomfort (audio)
discomforted; discomforting; discomforts

transitive verb

1
: to make uncomfortable or uneasy
2
archaic : dismay sense 1
discomfortable
dis-ˈkəm(p)-fər-tə-bəl How to pronounce discomfort (audio)
-ˈkəm(p)f-tər-bəl
adjective

Synonyms of discomfort

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Verb

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Examples of discomfort in a Sentence

Noun The patient is still experiencing some discomfort. These new developments are being watched with discomfort by many of our allies. Verb the harsh criticism of his musical talent did not discomfort him in the least
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Many users found that these supplements helped ease their bloating and abdominal discomfort. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026 The strong winds not only carry the sensation of discomfort, but also serendipitously become an integral character of the film. — Matilda Hague, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026 Pierce never disclosed what was causing the discomfort nor what the surgery was specifically done to correct. — James Boyd, New York Times, 11 Aug. 2026 Risks and side effects Fertility hormone injections can cause some discomfort, but side effects are usually mild. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discomfort

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Middle English, from Anglo-French descomforter, from des- dis- + comforter to comfort

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of discomfort was in the 14th century

Rhymes for discomfort

See All Rhymes for discomfort

Browse Nearby Words

discomfiture
discomfort
discomfortable
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discomfort.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discomfort. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

discomfort

1 of 2 verb
dis·​com·​fort dis-ˈkəm(p)-fərt How to pronounce discomfort (audio)
: to make uncomfortable or uneasy : distress

discomfort

2 of 2 noun
: physical or mental uneasiness

More from Merriam-Webster on discomfort

Nglish: Translation of discomfort for Spanish Speakers

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