Making uncomfortable, running off to gather energy and velocity (9)

I believe the answer is:

unnerving

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'making' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are present participle verbs, I can't see how they can define each other.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for unnerving that I've seen before include "intimidating" , "making one lack confidence?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.

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