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outburst

noun

out·​burst ˈau̇t-ˌbərst How to pronounce outburst (audio)
Synonyms of outburstnext
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Parents, caregivers and family members can call, text or chat to find urgent care for a child or teen experiencing suicidal thoughts or actions, emotional outbursts, extreme anxiety or a desire to harm others. Dr. Katherine Flynn-O'Brien, Boston Herald, 30 Nov. 2025 Their hive mind was even willing to supply Carol with an atom bomb or a bazooka — despite the grenade mishap and two emotional outbursts that killed millions of other Joined people around the world. Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 28 Nov. 2025 From Animal’s fiery outbursts to Beaker’s emotional silence, the Muppets are proof that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts… or in their case, the sum of its puppets. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 2025 Council started to help more after Jackson’s outburst. Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 27 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outburst

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outburst was in 1657

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Cite this Entry

“Outburst.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outburst. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

outburst

noun
out·​burst -ˌbərst How to pronounce outburst (audio)
1
: a sudden violent expression of strong feeling
an outburst of anger
2
: a sudden increase in activity or growth

More from Merriam-Webster on outburst

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