fermentation

(noun) a state of agitation or turbulent change or development. Synonyms: agitation, ferment, tempestuousness, unrest. Examples: "The political ferment produced new leadership." "Social unrest."

(noun) a process in which an agent causes an organic substance to break down into simpler substances; especially, the anaerobic breakdown of sugar into alcohol. Synonyms: zymosis, zymolysis, fermenting, ferment.