noun
turmoil
TUR-moyl/ˈtɜːrmɔɪl/
A state of great confusion or agitation.
The meeting is in turmoil as people argue across the table.
Etymology
The origin is uncertain, though the word is recorded as a verb before the noun meaning tumult or disturbance. A suggested connection to a mill hopper’s constant back-and-forth motion remains unconfirmed.
In context
Domestic political turmoil increased rapidly thereafter, such that by the spring of 1953, Cambodia was virtually in a state of civil war.
More examples
- The sudden resignation throws the company into turmoil.
- She hides her inner turmoil behind a calm smile.
- Political turmoil disrupts daily life across the country.
Forms
turmoil · turmoils
Similar words
- upheaval
- Emphasizes major disruptive change rather than confusion or agitation.
- unrest
- Emphasizes public discontent or disorder, often involving political conflict.
- agitation
- Emphasizes nervous excitement or emotional disturbance rather than general disorder.