turmoil

noun

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

Synonyms of turmoil

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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.
That same kind of counterculture is what makes Argentina be in such turmoil. — Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026 Underneath her glossy exterior, there’s turmoil and contained chaos. — Dominique Fluker, Forbes.com, 29 June 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, 2 July 2026 Venezuela has endured more than a decade of economic turmoil, and many continue to reject the legitimacy of the political movement Rodríguez represents. — Abigail Williams, NBC news, 29 June 2026 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

Rhymes for turmoil

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Browse Nearby Words

turmit
turmoil
turmoiler
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Cite this Entry

“Turmoil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turmoil. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of turmoil for Spanish Speakers

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