agitation
UK: ˌædʒɪˈteɪʃən | US: ˌædʒɪˈteɪʃən
n. a state of nervousness or excitement
n. the act of stirring or disturbing something physically
n. public protest or unrest aimed at social or political change
The word "agitation" traces back to Latin agitare, meaning "to stir violently" or "to disturb." This verb is an intensified form of agere (to drive, act), reflecting the idea of repeated or forceful motion. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both physical stirring (e.g., liquid agitation) and metaphorical unrest (e.g., social agitation). The suffix "-ation" solidifies its role as a noun describing a process or state.
The politician's speech caused widespread agitation among the crowd.
She stirred the mixture with increasing agitation.
The agitation for workers' rights led to significant reforms.
His agitation was evident from his rapid pacing.
The machine uses mechanical agitation to blend the ingredients.