/di sterr"beuhns/ , n.
1. the act of disturbing.
2. the state of being disturbed.
3. an instance of this; commotion.
4. something that disturbs.
5. an outbreak of disorder; a breach of public peace: Political disturbances shook the city.
6. Meteorol. any cyclonic storm or low-pressure area, usually a small one.
7. Geol. a crustal movement of moderate intensity, somewhat restricted in area.
[ 1250-1300; ME disto ( u ) rbance ]
Syn. 2. perturbation, confusion. See agitation. 5. confusion, tumult, riot. See disorder .
Ant. 3. order.