tumult

noun

tu·​mult ˈtü-ˌməlt 

ˈtyü-

also ˈtə-

1

a

: disorderly agitation or milling about of a crowd usually with uproar and confusion of voices : commotion

b

: a turbulent uprising : riot

2

: hubbub, din

3

a

: violent agitation of mind or feelings

b

: a violent outburst

Synonyms of tumult

• commotion
• disturbance
• turmoil
• stir
• hurry
• fuss
• noise

Examples of tumult in a Sentence

We had to shout to be heard over the tumult.

The country was in tumult.

Her mind was in a tumult of emotions.

Recent Examples on the Web

Yet another source of possible tumult doesn't bother the team leaders. —ABC News, 14 June 2026

The breakdown of the hospital’s last elevator follows months of tumult involving the facility. —Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026

Iranian leadership complained that visas for key staff members were being held up and the tumult was disturbing its preparation for the tournament. —Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 11 June 2026

Follmer is intimately acquainted with the tumult regarding the campus. —Quil Lawrence, NPR, 2 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tumulte, from Anglo-French, from Latin tumultus; perhaps akin to Sanskrit tumula noisy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

tumult

noun

tu·​mult ˈt(y)ü-ˌməlt 

1

: uproar

a great tumult arose in the stands

2

: great confusion of mind