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.
The number comes as Trump's varying tariffs plan has led to market turmoil and raised fears about an impending recession. Savannah Kuchar, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2025 His answer, given the exceptional political and economic turmoil in Canada, was a bit surprising. Ian Austen, New York Times, 26 Apr. 2025 Mecklenburg Democrats are poised to pick their next leader after months of turmoil following the 2024 election. Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 25 Apr. 2025 The company expects to capitalize on the current macroeconomic turmoil. Peter Cohan, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 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 30 Apr. 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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