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

While open to more Knives Out movies down the line, Johnson will next step out of the streaming bubble that’s kept him cozy amid the turmoil. —David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 21 Nov. 2025

On Thursday, the 25-year-old rose above the turmoil to win the title among contestants from 120 countries. —Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 21 Nov. 2025

Advertisement Rather than focus on the turmoil that punctuated Cheney’s term, the younger Bush kept his remarks on his friend’s character and devotion to his family. —Philip Elliott, Time, 20 Nov. 2025

After years of sustained and consistent growth, the company’s CEO acknowledged the complex scenario characterized by geopolitical turmoil and economic uncertainty. —Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 18 Nov. 2025

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