Tempestuous
Adjective
Definition: Characterized by strong and turbulent or conflicting emotion.
Synonyms: Stormy, Tumultuous, Turbulent, Volatile
Antonyms: Calm, Peaceful, Tranquil, Serene
- Their relationship was tempestuous, filled with constant arguments and passionate reconciliations.
- The tempestuous weather made it difficult to navigate the ship safely.
- Think of a storm with violent winds and raging waves to represent the strong and turbulent emotions associated with tempestuous.
Etymology:
Middle English (originally in the sense ‘characterized by stormy weather’): from Old French tempestueus, from Latin tempestuosus, from tempestas ‘storm’.
Historical Usage:The word tempestuous has been used since Middle English to describe stormy weather, but later also came to be applied to describe intense and turbulent emotions.
Related Idioms:
"Ride out the tempest"
Explanation:To endure or manage through a period of turbulence or difficulties.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "tempestuous" with "temperate."
Explanation:"Temperate" means moderate or mild, whereas "tempestuous" means turbulent or stormy. It's important to use the correct word to convey the intended meaning.