1. a violent storm with strong winds
2. a situation of great confusion or emotional disturbance
Usage: figurative

1. to disturb violently
Usage: literary

Examples

• The ship was caught in a fierce tempest at sea.
• The tempest destroyed several houses along the coast.
• His resignation created a tempest in the company.
• The scandal caused a tempest of controversy.
• She tried to weather the tempest of criticism.
• The waves were tempested by the hurricane winds.
• Political events tempested the nation for months.