turmoil

noun

tur·​moil ˈtər-ˌmȯi(-ə)l 

: a state or condition of extreme confusion, agitation, or commotion

Synonyms of turmoil

• unrest
• confusion
• excitement
• tension
• upheaval
• turbulence
• anxiety

Examples of turmoil in a Sentence

The country has been in turmoil for the past 10 years.

a period of political turmoil

His life has been in a constant turmoil.

Recent Examples on the Web

His 2026 runway show, the gorgeous Eterno, doubled as a fashion film and a celebration of Latino joy during times of turmoil, with performances from Latin Mafia, Mon Laferte, Lunay, and more. — Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 12 Oct. 2026

Investors hope the third-quarter earnings season will help stocks power through the Middle East turmoil. — Sean Conlon,hugh Leask,lee Ying Shan,sarah Min, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2026

The moves sparked a conflict that has plunged the region into unprecedented turmoil and placed Washington’s allies, including Saudi Arabia, in Iran’s crosshairs. — Mostafa Salem, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2026

Bond market turmoil and the simultaneous mass student protests at French schools are not a coincidence and point to the generational tradeoffs made in government spending, according to Nobel laureate Paul Krugman. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for turmoil

• airfoil
• benzoyl
• despoil
• embroil
• etoile
• gargoyle
• recoil
• subsoil
• tinfoil
• topsoil
• trefoil
• aerofoil

Kids Definition

turmoil

noun

tur·​moil ˈtər-ˌmȯil 

: a very confused or disturbed state or condition