turmoil

noun

tur·​moil ˈtər-ˌmȯi(-ə)l 

: a state or condition of extreme confusion, agitation, or commotion

Synonyms

• disquiet
• ferment
• fermentation
• restiveness
• restlessness
• Sturm und Drang
• uneasiness
• unquietness
• unrest

Examples of turmoil in a Sentence

The country has been in turmoil for the past 10 years.

a period of political turmoil

His life has been in a constant turmoil.

Recent Examples on the Web

Charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust, Netanyahu will testify three times a week, the court said, despite the Gaza war and possible new threats posed by wider Middle East turmoil. —Reuters, CNN, 10 Dec. 2024

Instead, Einhard used a local story of demonic possession of a young girl to make the critique for him, likely drawing on broader widespread views of the recent turmoil. —Matthew Gabriele, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Dec. 2024

Iran has been battered by Israel from outside and dissent and economic turmoil on the inside. —Tracy Wilkinson, Los Angeles Times, 8 Dec. 2024

Today, France is weathering political and social turmoil, what with the collapse of Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government and his resignation after pressures from both the right and left. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 8 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

turmoil

noun

tur·​moil ˈtər-ˌmȯil 

: a very confused or disturbed state or condition