upset

Definition

Angry, distressed, or unhappy

Etymology

From Middle English upset (“the act of setting up; establishment”), from Middle English upsetten, corresponding to up- + set. Cognate with Middle Low German upset (“setup; arrangement”).

Example Sentences

• "He was upset when she refused his friendship."
• "My children often get upset with their classmates."
• "We were shocked when we asked a disruptive man in the front row to move to the back, and when he subsequently left, the producer's helpers were so upset for him they gave him two free tickets to the next 'women's music' production."