Search Dictionary
Definition of turbulence
turbulence
/ˈtɜːr.bjə.ləns/
tur · bu · lence
Adverb:turbulently
•Plural:turbulences
•Adjective:turbulent
turbulence Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
3
turbulence Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
Violent or unsteady movement of air, water, or some other fluid, especially as encountered by an aircraft in flight.
Example
"The captain asked passengers to fasten their seatbelts as the plane passed through an area of moderate turbulence."
2
A state of conflict, confusion, or disorder in social, political, or personal affairs.
Example
"The company managed to stay profitable despite the severe economic turbulence of the past year."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for turbulence Antonyms
View all antonyms for turbulence• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 15th century from Late Latin turbulentia, from Latin turbulentus ('full of commotion, stormy, restless'), itself derived from turba ('turmoil, uproar, or crowd').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Turbulence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/turbulence