Turmoil/ˈtɜːrmɔɪl/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Outside Events Use 'turmoil' to describe situations affected by unexpected or significant events. The stock market went into turmoil following the unexpected news. Pro Tip 2/3Intensity 'Turmoil' often indicates a high level of intensity and seriousness in a situation. The city was in turmoil during the riots. Pro Tip 3/3Public Sphere 'Turmoil' is commonly used with issues in the public domain, like politics or economics. The government reshuffle caused political turmoil.