turbulence

noun

tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s How to pronounce turbulence (audio)
: the quality or state of being turbulent: such as
a
: great commotion or agitation
emotional turbulence
b
: irregular atmospheric motion especially when characterized by up-and-down currents
c
: departure in a fluid from a smooth flow

Examples of turbulence in a Sentence

The plane hit quite a bit of turbulence during our flight. A period of turbulence preceded the riots.
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.
Despite the turbulence surrounding CISA, Sean Plankey’s nomination has drawn an unusually wide and bipartisan base of support. Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 The turbulence accompanying him has often overshadowed his on-field traits. Colton Pouncy, New York Times, 30 May 2025 Economists have also predicted that the turbulence of the back-and-forth on tariffs will cause more businesses to stall investment plans and push consumers to spend less money if prices go up and fewer people are employed. Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 29 May 2025 There is anticipation over whether Trump's warning will lead to sanctions that might add to further turbulence in Russia's economy. Brendan Cole, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for turbulence

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of turbulence was in 1595

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turbulence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turbulence. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

turbulence

noun
tur·​bu·​lence ˈtər-byə-lən(t)s How to pronounce turbulence (audio)
: the quality or state of being turbulent
especially : irregular atmospheric motion with up and down currents
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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