turbulence

[ tur-byuh-luhns ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being turbulent; violent disorder or commotion.
2. Hydraulics. the haphazard secondary motion caused by eddies within a moving fluid.
3. Meteorology. irregular motion of the atmosphere, as that indicated by gusts and lulls in the wind.

turbulence

/ ˈtɜːbjʊləns; ˈtɜːbjʊˌlənsɪ /

noun

1. a state or condition of confusion, movement, or agitation; disorder
2. meteorol local instability in the atmosphere, oceans, or rivers
3. turbulent flow in a liquid or gas

turbulence

/ tûr′byə-ləns /

1. Chaotic or unstable eddying motion in a fluid. Avoiding excessive turbulence generated around moving objects (such as airplanes), which can make their motion inefficient and difficult to control, is a major factor in aerodynamic design.

Word History and Origins

Origin of turbulence¹

From the Late Latin word turbulentia, dating back to 1590–1600. See turbulent, -ence

Example Sentences

“Planes are already flying around thunderstorms and turbulence areas,” Mr Lopez de la Osa said.

From BBC

Here, costume designers Grace Snell and Jacqueline Durran discuss how the locations and turbulence in each story inform the vibrant looks.

From Los Angeles Times

The Harris campaign itself believes she lost to Trump because she was facing a restive public angry over the economic and social turbulence in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic.

From BBC

“There’s going to be a lot of turbulence.”

From Los Angeles Times

The upheaval and family turbulence shaped Jones.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• conflict
• confusion
• disturbance
• instability
• tumult
• turmoil
• unrest