turmoil

[ tur-moil ]

noun

1. a state of great commotion, confusion, or disturbance; tumult; agitation; disquiet:

   mental turmoil caused by difficult decisions.

   Synonyms: uproar, disorder, turbulence

   Antonyms: quiet, order

2. Obsolete. hard labor; toil.

turmoil

/ ˈtɜːmɔɪl /

noun

1. violent or confused movement; agitation; tumult

verb

1. archaic.
   to make or become turbulent

Word History and Origins

Origin of turmoil¹

First recorded in 1520–30; originally as verb: “to agitate”; etymology uncertain; perhaps tur(n) + moil

Word History and Origins

Origin of turmoil¹

C16: perhaps from turn + moil

Synonym Study

See agitation.

Example Sentences

India's 16-member cricket squad - selected months earlier - also had to deal with both personal and national turmoil as they readied themselves for a landmark series.

From BBC

It suggests adults are buying Lego and collectibles for their "positive mental health benefits as they spark nostalgia and bring escapism from global turmoil", said Melissa Symonds, executive director of UK toys at Circana.

From BBC

The turmoil plunged Europe's largest economy into political chaos, hours after Donald Trump's US election victory triggered uncertainty about the future of the continent's economy and security.

From BBC

Despite the turmoil, Grindr appears to have satisfied investors with strong growth even as the broader dating app industry has slowed.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite all the turmoil, Bitcoin continues to attract attention from investors and big companies.

From BBC

Related Words

• anxiety
• confusion
• disturbance
• riot
• strife
• trouble
• tumult
• turbulence
• unrest
• violence