upset

upset [up set′; ] for n. always, and for adj. also [, up′set΄]

vt.

upset, upsetting [ME upsetten: see UP¹ & SET]

1. Obs. to set up; erect

2.

a) to tip over; overturn [to upset a vase]

b) to overthrow or defeat unexpectedly

3.

a) to disturb the functioning, fulfillment, or completion of [to upset a busy schedule]

b) to disturb mentally or emotionally [upset by bad news]

c) to disturb physically; make sick [to upset the stomach]

4. Mech.

a) to shorten and thicken (a red-hot iron) by beating on the end

b) to shorten (a metal tire) in the process of resetting it

vi.

to become overturned or upset

n.

1. an upsetting or being upset; specif.,

a) a tipping over, knocking over, etc.

b) an unexpected victory or defeat

c) a disturbance or disorder, specif. of an emotional or physical nature

2. Mech.

a) a swage used for upsetting

b) an upset piece or part

adj.

1. Rare set up; erected

2.

a) tipped over; overturned

b) disturbed or disordered

upsetter

n.

SYN.- UPSET is the ordinary word implying a toppling, disorganization, etc. as a result of a loss of balance or stability [to upset a glass, one's plans, etc.; emotionally upset]; OVERTURN implies a turning of a thing upside down or flat on its side and, in extended use, connotes the destruction of something established [to overturn a chair, a government, etc. ]; CAPSIZE specifically implies the overturning or upsetting of a boat