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

There is also a misconception that heavy turbulence equates to unsafe air conditions. — Joey Skladany, Travel + Leisure, 10 July 2026

Shares keep hitting new record highs, though hit a bit of turbulence this week. — Brian Sullivan, CNBC, 9 July 2026

Weekly Newsletter The Golden Age of musicals ended in the turbulence of the 1960s. — Tim Brinkhof, JSTOR Daily, 8 July 2026

And in this relationship between him and Robby, it’s packed with all kinds of emotions and turbulence, almost like a brotherly relationship. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 8 July 2026

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