Meaning

(uncountable) The state or fact of being turbulent or agitated; tempestuousness, disturbance..

Definitions by Sense

1. (uncountable) The state or fact of being turbulent or agitated; tempestuousness, disturbance.
2. (uncountable) Disturbance in a gas or fluid, characterized by evidence of internal motion or unrest.
3. (uncountable, aviation) Specifically, a state of agitation or disturbance in the air which is disruptive to an aircraft.
4. (countable) An instance or type of such state or disturbance.

Example Sentences

Turbulence was everywhere, within every blade of grass, every drop of dew on a leaf, every cloud in the sky, and every star beyond. The turbulence was purposeless, but in huge quantities of purposeless turbulence, purpose took shape.

In a brief and abashed Tory conference speech, Kwarteng admitted it had been a “tough day” – hours after rowing back on the tax cut for high earners. He said his economic plan had caused “a little turbulence”.

Word Forms

• turbulences

Synonyms for turbulence

Related Words

When Should You Use Turbulence?

Use turbulence when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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