unnerve

[uhn-nurv]

verb (used with object)

unnerved, unnerving 

1. to deprive of courage, strength, determination, or confidence; upset.

   Fear unnerved him.

unnerve

/ ʌnˈnɜːv /

verb

1. (tr) to cause to lose courage, strength, confidence, self-control, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of unnerve¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; un- ² + nerve

Example Sentences

Combined with the coloured, shimmering floor and walls, and a soundtrack of muffled voices, gongs and bird calls, it all creates a powerful if unnerving feeling of floating in another realm.

From BBC

It’s so methodical and there’s something really unnerving about it.

From Los Angeles Times

Even though she believes that at least some police officers are trying to help, she said the last few months have been unnerving.

From Los Angeles Times

Inside, there’s unnerving minimalist furniture, dramatic saunas and ice baths and an indoor football field with a throwing machine powerful enough to knock out a tooth.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s why her unblinking shamelessness is so unnerving.

From Salon

Related Words

• agitate 
• bewilder 
• chill 
• confound 
• daunt 
• demoralize 
• disconcert 
• discourage 
• dishearten 
• dismay 
• dispirit 
• distract 
• fluster 
• frighten 
• perturb 
• rattle 
• sap 
• shake 
• undermine 
• unsettle