Meaning & Definition of word "Upset"

Upset

/ʌpˈsɛt/

noun:

  • 1. an occurrence in which a situation is overturned or disturbed.
    • Example: The tournament was full of upsets, with many top seeds eliminated early.
  • 2. a state of emotional disturbance.
    • Example: Her sudden upset was evident when she burst into tears.

verb:

  • 1. to cause (someone) to be unhappy, disappointed, or worried.
    • Example: She was upset by the news of her friend's illness.
  • 2. to overturn or disturb a situation.
    • Example: The unexpected twist in the plot upset our predictions for the ending.

adjective:

  • 1. feeling unhappy, disappointed, or worried.
    • Example: He was upset after his team lost the game.
  • 2. having been turned over or disturbed.
    • Example: The upset milk had to be thrown out.

Etymology

Middle English, from up + set, meaning to set up or overturn.

Common Phrases and Expressions

upset the apple cart:

To disrupt a plan or situation.

upset stomach:

A condition where the stomach feels uncomfortable or in pain.

make someone upset:

To cause someone to feel unhappy or distressed.

Related Words

disturb:

To interrupt the normal state or functioning of something.

dismay:

To lose confidence or courage due to a sudden shock.

agitate:

To cause someone to feel anxious or troubled.

Slang Meanings of upset

Meaning: To be really angry or frustrated.

Example Sentence: I was so upset with the way they treated me last night.

Meaning: To be in a bad mood.

Example Sentence: After that argument, she was upset for the rest of the day.