turbulent

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   agitated vigorously

   The turbulent seas capsized the ship.

2. 2
   adj

   Violently disturbed or agitated; tempestuous, tumultuous.

   It is dangerous to sail in turbulent seas.

3. 3
   adj

   Being in, or causing, disturbance or unrest.

   The mid-19th century was a turbulent time in American history.

4. 4
   adj

   characterized by unrest or disorder or insubordination

Etymology

From Middle English turbulent, from Middle French turbulent, from Latin turbulentus, from turba (“disorder, tumult, crowd”).