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Restlessly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒช๏ธ
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restlessly

[หˆrษ›stlษ™sli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in the context of being unable to relax or stay still

In a manner showing a lack of rest or relaxation; in a way that conveys unease or agitation. Restlessly can refer to physical movement or mental turmoil.

Synonyms

agitatedly, anxiously, fidgetily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
restlessly

Used when someone cannot stay still or is constantly moving due to inability to relax.

  • He walked restlessly around the room, waiting for the doctor to call him
agitatedly

Used in situations where someone is visibly upset or disturbed, often with quick and nervous movements.

  • She spoke agitatedly, waving her hands in the air to emphasize her frustration
anxiously

Used when someone is nervous or worried about something that might happen, often affecting their actions and behavior.

  • He waited anxiously for the test results, unable to focus on anything else
fidgetily

Used when someone is frequently moving or playing with their hands or objects due to nervousness or boredom.

  • She sat fidgetily in her chair, tapping her foot and playing with her pen

Examples of usage

  • She paced restlessly around the room, unable to sit still.
  • The child tossed and turned restlessly in bed, unable to fall asleep.
Context #2 | Adverb

in the context of being unable to stay in one place for long

In a way that suggests a lack of contentment with one's current location or situation; with a desire for change or movement. Restlessly can imply a sense of dissatisfaction or longing for something different.

Synonyms

uneasily, yearningly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
restlessly

Use this word when describing someone who cannot stay still or calm due to impatience, anxiety, or other emotions.

  • He paced restlessly back and forth, waiting for the news
uneasily

This word is best used when someone is feeling uncomfortable or anxious about something.

  • She glanced uneasily over her shoulder when she heard footsteps behind her
yearningly

This word is suitable when expressing a deep longing or strong desire for something, often with a tone of wistfulness.

  • He looked yearningly at the happy families, wishing he could join them

Examples of usage

  • He wandered restlessly around the city, searching for something he couldn't name.
  • The explorer's heart beat restlessly, yearning for the next adventure.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People often experience restlessness during anxiety or stress, indicating their mind is busy with worries.
  • Restlessness can be a symptom of various conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or insomnia, showing the body's response to mental discomfort.

Literature

  • Characters in classic novels often display restlessness when facing societal pressures, reflecting their internal conflicts.
  • In poetry, restlessness symbolizes a quest for freedom or change, illustrating the theme of human discontent.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often explore themes of restlessness, capturing feelings of longing or the desire to break free from routine.
  • Movies frequently portray restless characters who embark on journeys in search of purpose or meaning in life.

Science

  • Research indicates that physical restlessness can lead to greater creativity as a restless mind often thinks outside conventional boundaries.
  • Studies suggest that excessive restlessness may lead to poor sleep quality, highlighting the body's need for calmness to recharge.

Origin of 'restlessly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word traces back to the Old English 'rest' combined with the suffix '-lessly,' meaning 'without rest.'
  • The prefix 're-' often indicates a returning action, while 'st' is associated with standing still, creating an opposite in 'restlessly.'

The word 'restlessly' is derived from the root word 'restless,' which originated from the Old English word 'restlฤ“as.' The concept of restlessness has been present throughout history, reflecting human tendencies towards movement, change, and exploration. The adverb 'restlessly' captures the essence of this inner drive for action and progression, symbolizing a perpetual quest for something beyond the current state of being.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,417, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.