discomfort
discomfort Lexical Profile
discomfort Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A state of slight physical pain, soreness, or bodily uneasiness.
"The patient reported mild abdominal discomfort during the routine medical examination."
A feeling of mental or emotional uneasiness, awkwardness, or embarrassment.
"She shifted in her chair to hide her discomfort when the conversation turned to finances."
Something that disturbs one's physical ease or convenience; a hardship or inconvenience.
"The expedition team endured the minor discomforts of cold rain and cramped tents."
• verb
To make someone feel physically or emotionally uneasy, anxious, or uncomfortable.
"The sudden silence in the lecture hall seemed to discomfort the guest speaker."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse the verb 'discomfort' (to make slightly uneasy or uncomfortable) with 'discomfit', which traditionally means to thwart, baffle, or disconcert someone.
• Rhymes for discomfort
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed into Middle English in the 14th century from Old French 'desconfort' and 'desconforter', formed from the prefix 'des-' and 'confort' (strength, solace), ultimately from Late Latin 'confortare' meaning to strengthen.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.