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

Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images All the recent turmoil at Valencia has not helped his career progression, but Guerra enjoyed a strong end to last season, and earned a first senior Spain cap in a friendly in June. — Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Second-quarter results from Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd showed that demand remains resilient despite tariffs, geopolitical turmoil and higher energy costs, with both carriers benefiting from the increasing container prices. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 14 Aug. 2026

Media in turmoil Despite the strong momentum for Disney, D'Amaro has also faced some drama in his first few months. — Lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 14 Aug. 2026

Typically, families would flock to the area for summer beach vacations, but the ongoing turmoil has kept tourists away. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 14 Aug. 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