tumult

noun

tu·​mult ˈtü-ˌməlt 

ˈtyü-,

 also  ˈtə-

1

a

: disorderly agitation or milling about of a crowd usually with uproar and confusion of voices : commotion

b

: a turbulent uprising : riot

2

: hubbub, din

3

a

: violent agitation of mind or feelings

b

: a violent outburst

Synonyms

• commotion
• disturbance
• turmoil
• stir
• hurry
• fuss
• noise

Examples of tumult in a Sentence

We had to shout to be heard over the tumult.

The country was in tumult.

Her mind was in a tumult of emotions.

Recent Examples on the Web

This speaks to the temptation for business owners, in times of tumult or chaos, to conform to industry standards, veer into a safer lane and chase trends. —Paul Fitzgerald, Rolling Stone, 23 June 2025

The Japanese yen, which is traditionally viewed as a safe asset during times of tumult, weakened 0.31% against the dollar to 146.52. —Amala Balakrishner, CNBC, 22 June 2025

Since Buss’ death in 2013, the family has dealt with a fair amount of tumult, including Jeanie Buss removing her brother Jim from his position as executive vice president of basketball operations in 2017. —Dan Woike, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2025

Amid the ongoing tumult, city officials including Mayor Karen Bass implemented a curfew for portions of downtown, from 8 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday, and it was extended into Wednesday night as well. —Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tumulte, from Anglo-French, from Latin tumultus; perhaps akin to Sanskrit tumula noisy

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

tumult

noun

tu·​mult ˈt(y)ü-ˌməlt 

1

: uproar

a great tumult arose in the stands

2

: great confusion of mind