# restlessly

**Pronunciation:** /ˈrɛst.ləs.li/ · REST-less-lee

**CEFR level:** C1

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

In a way that shows an inability to relax, rest, or stay still, often due to worry, excitement, or boredom.

## Examples

- He paced restlessly around the room, waiting for news.
- She tapped her fingers restlessly on the table during the long meeting.
- The audience shifted restlessly in their seats as the play went on too long.

## Synonyms

- uneasily — Suggests discomfort or anxiety.
- fidgety — Describes a tendency to make small, nervous movements.
- incessantly — Emphasizes the continuous, non-stop nature of the movement.
- unquietly — A more formal term for not being calm or still.

## Antonyms

- calmly — In a relaxed and peaceful manner.
- peacefully — In a way that is free from disturbance or agitation.
- still — Without moving or making noise.

## Collocations

- sleep restlessly — He slept restlessly, disturbed by nightmares.
- wait restlessly — She waited restlessly for her exam results.
- move restlessly — The animals in the zoo moved restlessly in their enclosures.

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