Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Tumult \Tu"mult\, n. [L. tumultus; probably akin to Skr. tumula
   noise, noisy, and perhaps to L. tumere to swell, E. tumid:
   cf. F. tumulte.]
   1. The commotion or agitation of a multitude, usually
      accompanied with great noise, uproar, and confusion of
      voices; hurly-burly; noisy confusion.

            What meaneth the noise of this tumult ? --1 Sam. iv.
                                                  14.

            Till in loud tumult all the Greeks arose. --Pope.

   2. Violent commotion or agitation, with confusion of sounds;
      as, the tumult of the elements. --Addison.

   3. Irregular or confused motion; agitation; high excitement;
      as, the tumult of the spirits or passions.

   Syn: Uproar; ferment; disturbance; turbulence; disorder;
        confusion; noise; bluster; hubbub; bustle; stir; brawl;
        riot.

Tumult \Tu"mult\, v. i.
   To make a tumult; to be in great commotion. [Obs.]

         Importuning and tumulting even to the fear of a revolt.
                                                  --Milton.

Source : WordNet®

tumult
     n 1: a state of commotion and noise and confusion [syn: {tumultuousness},
           {uproar}, {garboil}]
     2: violent agitation [syn: {turmoil}]
     3: the act of making a noisy disturbance [syn: {commotion}, {din},
         {ruction}, {ruckus}, {rumpus}]