chaos

noun

cha·​os ˈkā-ˌäs 

1

a

: a state of utter confusion

the blackout caused chaos throughout the city

b

: a confused mass or mixture

a chaos of television antennas

2

a

often capitalized : a state of things in which chance is supreme

especially : the confused unorganized state of primordial matter before the creation of distinct forms compare cosmos

b

: the inherent unpredictability in the behavior of a complex natural system (such as the atmosphere, boiling water, or the beating heart)

3

obsolete : chasm, abyss

Synonyms

• havoc
• mess
• jumble
• confusion
• hell
• disorder

Examples of chaos in a Sentence

The loss of electricity caused chaos throughout the city.

When the police arrived, the street was in total chaos.

The country had descended into economic chaos.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, throughout the chaos and oft contentious competition, eventually the feud seemed to fade. —Staff Author, Southern Living, 16 Aug. 2025

For families like Briana’s and Daniel’s, those conversations could be the difference between a child finding safety in familiar arms or facing the chaos of the foster system. —Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2025

So, a solid foundation in your relationship sets the stage for a solid future, despite the chaos and upheaval of a move. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025

With blue-haired Halsey back in action, the preview promises the return of a familiar chaos. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 15 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek — more at gum

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Phrases Containing chaos

• chaos theory

Kids Definition

chaos

noun

cha·​os ˈkā-ˌäs 

: complete confusion

chaotic

kā-ˈät-ik 

adjective

chaotically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb