turmoil

UK: ˈtɜːmɔɪl | US: ˈtɜːrmɔɪl

Definition

  1. n. a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty

  2. n. violent or chaotic movement; agitation

Structure
tur <confusion (obsolete)>moil <toil or chaos>tur <confusion>moil <toil or chaos>
Etymology

The word "turmoil" emerged in the 16th century, blending the obsolete tur (disorder) with moil (chaotic labor). It originally described physical agitation (e.g., milling grain) before shifting to abstract chaos. The fusion reflects the interplay of motion (tur) and struggle (moil), capturing both literal and metaphorical unrest.

Examples

  1. The political scandal threw the country into turmoil.

  2. Her mind was in turmoil after the unexpected news.

  3. The stock market experienced turmoil during the crisis.

  4. The protest left the city in complete turmoil.

  5. He tried to hide his inner turmoil behind a calm smile.