turbulent flow

American  

noun

Hydraulics.

1. the flow of a fluid past an object such that the velocity at any fixed point in the fluid varies irregularly.

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turbulent flow British  

noun

1. flow of a fluid in which its velocity at any point varies rapidly in an irregular manner Compare laminar flow See also streamline flow

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turbulent flow Scientific  

/ tûr′byə-lənt /

1. Movement of a fluid in which subcurrents in the fluid display turbulence, moving in irregular patterns, while the overall flow is in one direction. Turbulent flow is common in nonviscous fluids moving at high velocities.

2. Compare laminar flow

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Etymology

Origin of turbulent flow

First recorded in 1920–25

Compare meaning

How does turbulent-flow compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• laminar flow vs. turbulent flow

Example Sentences

Turbulent flow, or turbulence, is characterized by eddies and swirls that mix layers of fluid together.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Turbulent flow is more effective than laminar flow at keeping sediments in suspension.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015