Sturm und Drang

[ shtoorm oont drahng ]

noun

1. a style or movement of German literature of the latter half of the 18th century: characterized chiefly by impetuosity of manner, exaltation of individual sensibility and intuitive perception, opposition to established forms of society and thought, and extreme nationalism.
2. tumult; turmoil; upheaval.

Sturm und Drang

/ ˈʃtʊrm ʊnt ˈdraŋ /

noun

1. a German literary movement of the latter half of the 18th century, characterized by a reaction against rationalism

Word History and Origins

Origin of Sturm und Drang¹

< German: literally, storm and stress

Word History and Origins

Origin of Sturm und Drang¹

literally: storm and stress, from the title of a play by F. M. von Klinger (1752–1831), German dramatist

Example Sentences

Let’s circle back to the Sturm und Drang about whole milk making kids gain weight — a main reason behind long-standing recommendations that children stop drinking whole milk at age 2.

From Seattle Times

Instead, they hope the electorate appreciates a leader who ignores the Sturm und Drang to focus on matters like the economy, health care and national security.

From New York Times

Rizzi’s “Medea” had the formality of Gluck, who influenced Cherubini, mixed with hints of the tumultuous “Sturm und Drang” movement to come.

From New York Times

After all that Sturm und Drang, “Don’t Worry Darling” opened in first place at the domestic box office with $19.2 million — a solid showing, particularly given the less-than-glowing reviews.

From Los Angeles Times

Sometimes Snider’s Sturm und Drang suggested early feminist boldness, or corresponding public sphere controversy.

From New York Times