Perturb

/pərˈtɜrb/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to disturb or disquiet greatly in mind; unsettle.
The sudden news of the accident seemed to perturb everyone at the gathering.
to cause (a system, process, etc.) to deviate from its normal state.
The scientist was concerned that the experiment might perturb the natural balance of the ecosystem.
to throw into confusion or disorder.
The unexpected changes in the schedule began to perturb the students.

Etymology

Late Middle English, from Latin 'perturbare', from 'per-' (through) + 'turbare' (to disturb)

Common Phrases and Expressions

perturb the peace
To disturb a tranquil situation.
perturb someone's mind
To cause someone to feel anxious or troubled.
perturb the status quo
To disrupt the existing state of affairs.

Related Words

disturb
To interfere with the normal arrangement or functioning.
unsettle
To cause to feel anxious or uneasy.

Slang Meanings

To mess with someone's head.
That movie really perturbed me, I couldn't stop thinking about it.
To throw off someone's groove.
Don't perturb my vibe, I'm trying to chill.