Restless
/ˈrestləs/
Definitions
2 meaningsUnable to rest, relax, or be still; characterized by a lack of calmness.
/ˈrestləs/
Unable to rest or relax
She became restless during the long lecture.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're super excited before a birthday party, and you can't stop wiggling, fidgeting, and changing your mind about what you want to play. That's feeling restless! It's like your body and mind want to do a million things but can't pick one.
👶 For kids: When you can't sit still or you can't sleep because you are excited or worried.
More Examples
The dog was restless after being cooped up inside all day.
The patient felt restless and anxious.
He paced the room, restless with anticipation.
How It's Used
"A restless child couldn't sit still during the movie."
"Symptoms of anxiety often include a restless feeling."
Not able to be still or quiet, in motion or change.
/ˈrestləs/
Unable to be still or quiet
The restless waves crashed against the shore.
💡 Simply: Think of a busy city, always buzzing with cars, people, and noise. It's constantly moving and never settles down, just like the sea with big waves and all the creatures moving around. That's what it means to be restless in this way—always going!
👶 For kids: When something is always moving and changing, like waves in the ocean or a busy city.
More Examples
The city's restless energy never ceased.
A restless wind swept through the trees.
The nation remained restless despite the peace treaty.
How It's Used
"The restless sea churned with a relentless power."
"The restless city never sleeps."
Idioms & expressions
restless spirit
A person who is always seeking new experiences and adventures; someone who is not content with a settled life.
"He was a restless spirit, always traveling and exploring new cultures."
From Middle English restles, equivalent to rest + -less. The 'rest' here means 'peace' or 'calm'.
The word 'restless' has been used since the 14th century, originally to denote a lack of physical rest.
Memory tip
Think of a person bouncing their leg while waiting in anticipation; they are restless.
Word Origin
"Without rest; troubled, uneasy"