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Definitions

turbulent

[tur-byuh-luhnt] / ˈtɜr byə lənt /
ADJECTIVE
unsettled, raging (referring to weather)
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bitter bumpy choppy fierce rough stormy swirling tempestuous unstable violent
WEAK
agitated blustering blustery boiling coarse confused destructive disordered disturbed foaming furious howling inclement moiling noisy restless riotous roaring ruffled rugged stirred up stormful storming thunderous tremulous tumultuous wild
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calm gentle kind mild moderate nice peaceful smooth
WEAK
manageable obedient settled stable
ADJECTIVE
rebellious, unmanageable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bitter chaotic fierce lawless quarrelsome raucous rough rowdy unruly violent
WEAK
agitated anarchic angry boisterous demonstrative destructive disorderly excited fiery foaming insubordinate mutinous obstreperous passionate perturbed rabid rambunctious rampant refractory riotous roughhouse rude seditious shaking stern storming termagant unbridled uncontrolled undisciplined ungovernable untamed uproarious vehement vociferous wild
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agreeable calm gentle kind mild moderate nice peaceful quiet
WEAK
manageable obedient settled stable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That may test whether the record-setting rally in the broader stock market is justified, or just another head fake in a market still searching for stability in a turbulent year.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 26, 2026

The piece suggests this physical restraint conveyed an image of a cautious functionary rather than a dynamic leader capable of governing California during turbulent times.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

I know then-Chairman Ben Bernanke relied heavily on Kevin during that turbulent time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

She said the charity was ready to navigate "these turbulent times", influence policy and create more safe and inclusive places for people to feel safe and thrive.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

Not only did they have to deal with the turbulent explosions, but they also had to try to stay in formation behind their leader as everyone’s planes were buffeted about in the angry sky.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein

Vocabulary lists containing turbulent

"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 16–19

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"The Great Gatsby," Chapter 1 Vocabulary

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This Week in Words: October 13 – 20, 2018

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