turbulence

noun

tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being turbulent: such as

a

: great commotion or agitation

emotional turbulence

b

: irregular atmospheric motion especially when characterized by up-and-down currents

c

: departure in a fluid from a smooth flow

Examples of turbulence in a Sentence

The plane hit quite a bit of turbulence during our flight.

A period of turbulence preceded the riots.

Recent Examples on the Web

But in recent days, an unexpected slide in consumer confidence that dovetailed with worries about higher inflation ahead raised the specter that the economy could be headed for some turbulence. —Jeff Cox, CNBC, 24 Feb. 2025

The turbulence in Washington — the flurry of executive orders, legally questionable decisions and instability of congressional leadership — has made one thing clear: City government, the level of government closest to the people, should at least have a clear and reliable playbook. —Kam Buckner, Chicago Tribune, 23 Feb. 2025

These patterns form something of a visual map that gives insights into air dynamics over the car’s surface, highlighting areas of turbulence, separation, and efficiency. —Yara Elshebiny, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025

Amid this turbulence, technological advancements — particularly in artificial intelligence — offer both unprecedented challenges and extraordinary opportunities. —John Eger, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing turbulence

• clear-air turbulence

Kids Definition

turbulence

noun

tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being turbulent

especially : irregular atmospheric motion with up and down currents