Disturb definition: to interrupt the quiet, rest, peace, or order of; unsettle .. See examples of DISTURB used in a sentence. The verb ' disturb ' has its etymological roots in the Old French word 'destourber,' which can be traced back to the Latin term 'turbare.' In Latin, 'turbare' means 'to throw into disorder' or 'to disturb .' The word 'turbare' itself is related to 'turba,' meaning 'tumult' or 'commotion.' Therefore, the etymology of ' disturb ' reflects the idea of disrupting or unsettling a state of calm, peace, or order by introducing turmoil or commotion. This core notion of causing a disturbance has persisted ... To disturb is to bother . If you hang a "Do not disturb" sign on the outside of your hotel room door, you want to be left alone. DISTURB meaning: 1. to interrupt what someone is doing: 2. to break the law by behaving unpleasantly and noisily in…. Learn more.