v.
Pronunciation: ˌ dis-k ə m- ' p ō z
Function: transitive verb
Etymology: Middle English
Date: 15th century
1 : to destroy the composure of
2 : to disturb the order of
– dis · com · po · sure \ - ' p ō -zh ə r \ noun
synonyms DISCOMPOSE , DISQUIET , DISTURB , PERTURB , AGITATE , UPSET , FLUSTER mean to destroy capacity for collected thought or decisive action. DISCOMPOSE implies some degree of loss of self-control or self-confidence especially through emotional stress < discomposed by the loss of his beloved wife>. DISQUIET suggests loss of sense of security or peace of mind <the disquieting news of factories closing>. DISTURB implies interference with one's mental processes caused by worry, perplexity, or interruption <the discrepancy in accounts disturbed me>. PERTURB implies deep disturbance of mind and emotions < perturbed by her husband's strange behavior>. AGITATE suggests obvious external signs of nervous or emotional excitement <in his agitated state we could see he was unable to work>. UPSET implies the disturbance of normal or habitual functioning by disappointment, distress, or grief <the family's constant bickering upsets the youngest child>. FLUSTER suggests bewildered agitation <his declaration of love completely flustered her>.