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

Her testimony provided fresh insight into her views on presidential power and the Education Department's role in overseeing K-12 schools and colleges, and her take on the ongoing turmoil at the agency she is expected to manage. —Zachary Schermele, USA TODAY, 13 Feb. 2025

By refusing to disarm or permit alternative governance, Hamas has condemned innocent civilians to endure relentless turmoil. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Feb. 2025

The consumer bureau has been in turmoil for days after Russell Vought, installed Friday by Mr. Trump as the agency’s acting director, ordered a halt to all of its operations. —Stacy Cowley, New York Times, 12 Feb. 2025

What is Temporary Protected Status? TPS is a federal program that gives temporary deportation protections and work permits to people in the U.S. from countries in turmoil. —Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 12 Feb. 2025

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