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

This kind of telescope is ideal for solar work, being a good size aperture to reveal fine detail, but not so large as to be severely affected by daytime atmospheric turbulence. — Damian Peach, Space.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Political consultant Mike Trujillo, who is supporting Bass, said the kinds of turbulence Bass has faced this year is par for the course for a big-city mayor. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026

Footage from the trip captured lightning flashing around the aircraft as turbulence shook the cabin. — Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026

But for those alarmed by the turbulence of midlife, the writer Valeria Luiselli’s novels offer a refreshingly different perspective. — Lily Meyer, The Atlantic, 28 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