riotous

adjective

ri·​ot·​ous ˈrī-ə-təs 

1

a

: of the nature of a riot : turbulent

b

: participating in riot

2

: abundant, exuberant

the garden was riotous with flowers

riotously adverb

riotousness noun

Synonyms of riotous

• humorous
• comedic
• funny
• amusing
• comic
• comical
• hysterical
• ridiculous
• entertaining

Examples of riotous in a Sentence

a riotous profusion of flowers

his riotous mugging always has everyone in hysterics

Recent Examples on the Web

The Musical’ Baz Luhrmann’s 2011 movie musical is lush and riotous. — Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 22 June 2026

Although every room’s layout and decoration is slightly different, the overriding effect is riotous pattern (wallpaper and fabrics match), sumptuous layering (throws and cushions galore), elegant mirrors and original art. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 June 2026

Part slasher parody, part meta commentary on the structure of horror movies, and fully riotous, Behind the Mask is a dreadfully under-appreciated contribution to the subgenre that would have made for a terrific franchise. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 9 June 2026

Shocking video captured the moments anti-ICE agitators were arrested outside Delaney Hall in Newark, New Jersey, Friday, during riotous confrontations. — Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 6 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for riotous

• quietus

Kids Definition

riotous

adjective

ri·​ot·​ous ˈrī-ət-əs 

1

a

: of the nature of a riot

b

: taking part in rioting

2

: abundant

a garden riotous with flowers

riotously adverb

Legal Definition

riotous

adjective

ri·​ot·​ous ˈrī-ə-təs 

1

: of the nature of a riot

riotous conduct

2

: participating in a riot

a riotous assemblage