Turmoil
/ˈtɜːr.mɔɪl/noun
A state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.
Did you know?The Old French word 'tourmoi' was originally used to describe a violent upheaval or disturbance, reflecting the chaotic forces of nature and human emotion.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*dʰer-
“to hold or support, but also to disturb or stir up.”
Latin
Latin
turba
“a crowd, disturbance, or confusion.”
Old French
Old French
tourmoi
“a disturbance or upheaval; to throw into disorder.”
14th Century
Middle English
turmoyle
“a state of confusion, disorder, or agitation.”
Modern English
English
turmoil
“a state of great disturbance or confusion.”