turbulence

noun

tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s How to pronounce turbulence (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the country’s internal political turbulence will compromise Washington’s ability to provide leadership on the world stage. Robert A. Pape, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2024 The put options recommended by Barclays would become more valuable if European stocks decline, offering protection against market turbulence. Ganesh Rao, CNBC, 4 Nov. 2024 The firm is also overweight real assets, including infrastructure, natural resources and real estate, to shield portfolios from future turbulence if the labor market remains tight and economic growth stays sturdy. Alicia Adamczyk, Fortune, 3 Nov. 2024 Stagnation, of course, isn’t just rough on those in first class; turbulence is always worse at the back of the plane. Mia Galuppo, The Hollywood Reporter, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for turbulence 

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of turbulence was in 1595

Dictionary Entries Near turbulence

Cite this Entry

“Turbulence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turbulence. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

turbulence

noun
tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s How to pronounce turbulence (audio)
: the quality or state of being turbulent
especially : irregular atmospheric motion with up and down currents
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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