troubling
UK: ˈtrʌblɪŋ | US: ˈtrʌblɪŋ
adj. causing distress, anxiety, or difficulty
v. (present participle of trouble) disturbing or bothering someone
The word troubling derives from the verb trouble, which entered Middle English via Old French troubler (to agitate, disturb), itself from Latin turbulare (to confuse, stir up). The root troubl- retains its core meaning of disturbance, while -ing marks it as a present participle or adjective. The evolution reflects a shift from physical agitation (Latin turba = crowd, chaos) to emotional or mental distress in modern usage.
The troubling news left everyone in silence.
She found his behavior deeply troubling.
The report highlights troubling trends in climate change.
His absence is troubling the team members.
A troubling thought crossed her mind.