Restless: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage

Restless (adjective) describes a state of inability to rest, relax, or remain still.

Definitions

• Unable to rest, relax, or sit still; fidgety, agitated.
• Characterized by constant, often purposeless movement (e.g., restless legs, pacing).
• Lacking tranquility, peace, or settledness (e.g., restless night, restless crowd).
• Persistent desire for change or action (e.g., restless ambition).

Synonyms

Fidgety, agitated, antsy, edgy, jittery, jumpy, nervous, uneasy, unsettled, impatient, hyperactive, unsettled, unrelaxed.

Related Terms

• Restlessness (noun): The state of being restless.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS/Willis-Ekbom Disease): Neurological sensorimotor disorder with urge to move legs, worse at rest/night.
• Restlessly (adverb): In a restless manner.

Example Sentences

• The child grew restless during the long ceremony.
• She spent a restless night worrying about the exam.
• His restless energy drove him to start three businesses.
• The crowd became restless as the speaker ran late.