Restless

Restless is an adjective describing a state of being unable to rest or remain still, or unable to be settled. It can refer to physical restlessness—fidgeting, pacing, or constant movement—or to mental restlessness, such as anxiety, agitation, or persistent dissatisfaction.

In medical contexts, restlessness is a symptom associated with several conditions. It can accompany anxiety disorders, manic episodes, delirium, or sleep disorders. A well-known specific condition is restless legs syndrome (RLS), which involves an uncomfortable urge to move the limbs, typically the legs, and is worse when at rest and at night, often relieved by movement. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include sleep hygiene measures, iron supplementation when ferritin is low, and medications that address dopaminergic or sensory pathways.

In culture and literature, restlessness is a common motif used to express a character’s search for meaning, dissatisfaction with routine, or a desire to change circumstances. It appears in poetry, prose, and film as a driver of action or transformation, and is often tied to themes of youth, migration, or ambition.

Etymology and usage: The word rests on the base rest plus the suffix -less, indicating lacking rest. The noun form is restlessness, used to describe the ongoing state of being unable to settle.