Discomposure: meaning, definitions and examples
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discomposure
[ ˌdɪskəmˈpɔʊʒər ]
state of mind
Discomposure refers to a state of agitation or disturbance of mind. It describes the feeling of being unsettled or disturbed, often due to unexpected events or pressures.
Synonyms
agitation, disarray, disruption, disturbance, unsettlement
Examples of usage
- She maintained her composure in spite of the discomposure around her.
- His discomposure was evident when he heard the unexpected news.
- The sudden change in plans caused a great discomposure among the staff.
- Despite the discomposure caused by the argument, they managed to resolve their differences.
Etymology
The term 'discomposure' originates from the late Middle English term 'discomposuren', which is derived from the prefix 'dis-', indicating a negation or removal, combined with 'composure', referring to a state of calmness or self-control. The roots of 'composure' can be traced back to Latin 'componere', meaning 'to put together' or 'to arrange'. Over time, the melding of these terms resulted in 'discomposure', which came to represent the opposite of composure—an anxiety or disturbance of one's emotional state. The usage of 'discomposure' has been present since the 15th century, reflecting human emotional responses to situations that challenge stability and peace of mind. It is often used in literary and psychological contexts to describe the unsettling impact of crisis or unexpected events.