chaos
UK: ˈkeɪ.ɒs | US: ˈkeɪ.ɑːs
n. a state of complete confusion and disorder
n. (physics) a property of complex systems with unpredictable behavior
n. (Greek mythology) the primordial void preceding creation
The word "chaos" originates directly from Greek khaos (χάος), meaning "gaping void" or "primordial emptiness." In Greek cosmology, it described the formless state before the universe was ordered. The term entered English in the 14th century via Latin, retaining its core sense of disorder. Over time, it expanded to scientific contexts (e.g., chaos theory) while preserving its mythological roots.
The room was in chaos after the children's party.
Chaos theory studies how small changes can lead to vastly different outcomes.
In Greek myth, Chaos preceded the creation of the Titans.
The protest descended into chaos when the crowd broke through the barriers.
Her desk was a chaos of scattered papers and coffee cups.