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

The Deliriant’s dream takes him through the tumult of the twentieth century, from the Second Sino-Japanese War to the Cultural Revolution to the eve of the new millennium, with a momentary glimpse of the present. —Dennis Zhou, New Yorker, 12 Dec. 2025

And while those severe shoulders remain, there have also been softer and more quietly luxurious moments—signaling some level of awareness of the political and social tumult that has roiled the country this year. —Vogue, 12 Dec. 2025

Despite the tumult, Binance has maintained its role as the dominant cryptocurrency platform worldwide, and has continued to expand both its global footprint and its product line. —Jeff John Roberts, Fortune, 3 Dec. 2025

Justice was considered a billionaire earlier this decade, but has since seen much of his wealth become tied up with creditors, and has seen his liabilities increase in recent years amid tumult with his multitudes of businesses. —Al Weaver, The Hill, 25 Nov. 2025

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