turmoil

noun

tur·​moil ˈtər-ˌmȯi(-ə)l How to pronounce turmoil (audio)
: a state or condition of extreme confusion, agitation, or commotion

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Years of economic turmoil have eroded the military’s effectiveness, leading to declining troop conditions and challenges with equipment maintenance. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025 Antonoff spoke about how touring around the country acts as another salve to the current political turmoil, even as artists get front-row seats to how the nation is changing. Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 24 Oct. 2025 Against a dampened economy and geopolitical turmoil, the stakes are higher than ever. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2025 El-Masry appears as Abdullah, a charismatic local guide whose friendship helps Sam navigate his emotional turmoil. Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for turmoil

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of turmoil was in 1526

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turmoil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turmoil. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

turmoil

noun
tur·​moil ˈtər-ˌmȯil How to pronounce turmoil (audio)
: a very confused or disturbed state or condition

More from Merriam-Webster on turmoil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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