turbulent
TURB-yuh-luhnt
Turbulent (adj) means marked by violent disturbance or constant unrest. Example: “The nation went through a turbulent period of civil unrest.”
adj
1
Marked by violent disturbance or constant unrest.
"The nation went through a turbulent period of civil unrest."
"Their turbulent relationship was full of breakups and reconciliations."
"The mid-19th century was a turbulent time in American history."
How to use turbulent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishChaotic and unsettled, whether describing weather, politics, or personal relationships.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
turbulent times
turbulent relationship
turbulent history
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more turbulent
- Superlative
- most turbulent
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The nation went through a _____ period of civil unrest.
Etymology
From Latin turbulentus, based on turba, meaning "disorder" or "crowd."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for turbulent
See all rhymes for turbulent →Frequently asked questions
What does “turbulent” mean?
The word “turbulent” means marked by violent disturbance or constant unrest. In plain terms, chaotic and unsettled, whether describing weather, politics, or personal relationships.
How do you pronounce “turbulent”?
“Turbulent” is pronounced TURB-yuh-luhnt (/ˈtɝbjələnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “turbulent” in a sentence?
Here is “turbulent” used in a sentence: “The nation went through a turbulent period of civil unrest.”
What part of speech is “turbulent”?
“Turbulent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “turbulent” come from?
The word “turbulent” comes from Latin. From Latin turbulentus, based on turba, meaning "disorder" or "crowd.".
Is “turbulent” a common word?
“Turbulent” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
