outburst

noun

out·​burst ˈau̇t-ˌbərst 

1

: a violent expression of feeling

an outburst of anger

2

: a surge of activity or growth

new outbursts of creative power

—C. E. Montague

3

: eruption

volcanic outbursts

Synonyms

• agony
• blaze
• burst
• ebullition
• eruption
• explosion
• fit
• flare
• flare-up
• flash
• flush
• gale
• gush
• gust
• paroxysm
• spasm
• storm

Examples of outburst in a Sentence

the judge directed the courtroom spectators to refrain from any outbursts when the verdict was read

there was a remarkable outburst of work in the office as the visiting VIPs made their tour

Recent Examples on the Web

Loading your audio article FORT COLLINS — After a violent outburst almost cost him everything, Avery Morrow was determined to get his life back on track. —Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 10 Nov. 2024

Angry outbursts, a lack of motivation and poor eating habits may be signs of election stress that will put some people at higher risk for cardiovascular problems this week, experts and research suggest. —Stephanie Innes, The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024

As the drivers exited their vehicles, Smith approached Custer, leading to a physical outburst. —David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Nov. 2024

She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 42 following the outbursts. —Kiara Alfonseca, ABC News, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

outburst

noun

out·​burst -ˌbərst 

1

: a sudden violent expression of strong feeling

an outburst of anger

2

: a sudden increase in activity or growth