tumult

[ too-muhlt, tyoo- ]

noun

1. violent and noisy commotion or disturbance of a crowd or mob; uproar:

   The tumult reached its height during the premier's speech.

   Synonyms: turbulence, disorder

2. a general outbreak, riot, uprising, or other disorder:

   The tumult moved toward the embassy.

   Synonyms: mutiny, revolution, revolt

3. highly distressing agitation of mind or feeling; turbulent mental or emotional disturbance:

   His placid facade failed to conceal the tumult of his mind.

   Synonyms: perturbation, excitement

tumult

/ ˈtjuːmʌlt /

noun

1. a loud confused noise, as of a crowd; commotion
2. violent agitation or disturbance
3. great emotional or mental agitation

Word History and Origins

Origin of tumult¹

1375–1425; late Middle English tumult ( e ) < Latin tumultus an uproar, akin to tumēre to swell

Word History and Origins

Origin of tumult¹

C15: from Latin tumultus , from tumēre to swell up

Synonym Study

See ado.

Example Sentences

The penalties are the latest blow in what has been a season of tumult for the richest franchise in women’s professional sports history.

From Los Angeles Times

The 2024 presidential campaign has been full of historic tumult, but the American electorate is still sharply – and narrowly - divided.

From BBC

There is other reporting about how Trump's campaign is in tumult, and he is raging and lashing out.

From Salon

And for the Ukrainian government — as well as its European backers — the tumult of this American campaign season is viewed with growing alarm.

From Los Angeles Times

Kobe Bryant’s relationship with wife, Vanessa, survived early tumult and he eventually repaired a rift with his parents.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• agitation
• commotion
• convulsion
• disturbance
• excitement
• ferment
• fracas
• hassle
• maelstrom
• outcry
• pandemonium
• quarrel
• riot
• strife
• turbulence
• turmoil
• unrest
• upheaval