turbulence

noun

tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s 

: 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

Equity performance this week depicted a tale of two very different markets, and one trade preserved against the turbulence: playing defense. —Samantha Subin, CNBC, 6 Sep. 2024

The major turbulence really started around the time of Cannes, is that fair? —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2024

While there are some concerns that recent economic turbulence could put a damper on sales, many industry experts believe that the market is stabilizing after the chaos seen during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. —Madeline Fitzgerald, Quartz, 15 Aug. 2024

The Fed has faced mounting pressure to cut rates, with some voices blaming the panel for recent stock market turbulence. —Daniel De Visé, USA TODAY, 14 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing turbulence

• clear-air turbulence

Kids Definition

turbulence

noun

tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being turbulent

especially : irregular atmospheric motion with up and down currents