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

But there are real-world consequences if confusion over Fed policy causes severe turbulence in markets. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2026

Top down with the windows raised and the quirky wind deflector deployed, the cockpit is a wonderful place to be, and one that’s almost completely devoid of turbulence—even at near triple-digit speeds. — Howard Walker, Robb Report, 7 Aug. 2026

Adams flagged a generational dimension to the turbulence that could prove more durable than a single month’s noise. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026

Carlisle’s exit came at a time of turbulence for 60 Minutes, which has been rocked by accusations of meddling under new ownership from David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance. — Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 7 Aug. 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