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

Famous for his long-term vision and ease with risk and business turbulence, Arnault reminded the audience that fashion has never been an easy sector. — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2026

Co-pilot radioed and texted about ice and turbulence The Learjet hit the ground with enough force to create a crater before bursting into flames. — Josh Funk, Chicago Tribune, 3 Nov. 2026

Weather data shows the aircraft entered a rapidly intensifying thunderstorm cell shortly before the pilots reported icing and significant turbulence. — Kris Van Cleave, CBS News, 3 Nov. 2026

The crew had reported light clear ice and moderate turbulence while flying at about 35,000 feet before requesting permission to climb to 37,000 feet. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 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