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

As the fashion industry faces down a relentless barrage of tariff threats, geopolitical turbulence and climate chaos, Claire Bergkamp, CEO of Textile Exchange, has some good news. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

But budget negotiations have become a source of political turbulence in recent years. — Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 15 Oct. 2026

Eyeline wants artists to adjust water’s velocity, viscosity and turbulence with keyframes, and add foam or spray without altering the underlying simulation. — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026

The alliance was an early instance of a pattern that would recur any time Japan entered a period of political or economic turbulence. — Ian Buruma, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 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