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

Despite the turmoil set off by the Iran war and border skirmishes with Cambodia, the country’s tycoons are collectively richer and its stock market has surged as Thailand positions itself as a regional data center hub powered by green energy. — Naazneen Karmali, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Investing in gold can diversify your portfolio, as it's seen as a safe-haven investment during times of uncertainty or turmoil and as an inflation hedge. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 10 July 2026

Over the past decade, the country has been rebuilding its tourism appeal after years of political turmoil, violence, and the pandemic. — Lea Tran, TheWeek, 10 July 2026

Platner's withdrawal caps days of turmoil that had engulfed his campaign and intensifies pressure on Democratic leaders to quickly coalesce around an alternative candidate. — Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 9 July 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