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.
President Trump's economic policies have created significant market turbulence as his administration reshapes America's global relationships. Robert Daugherty, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025 Looking ahead, Roe said, what is going to matter politically is how long the turbulence drags out for households and voters. Zach Halaschak, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 9 Mar. 2025 Given the turbulence of recent weeks, analysts said, any positive job tidings are welcome news. Daniel De Visé, USA TODAY, 7 Mar. 2025 The president, during his address to Congress on Tuesday, asked farmers for some space despite what could be some turbulence in the near-term. Al Weaver, The Hill, 6 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turbulence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turbulence. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

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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