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 of outburst

• explosion
• burst
• eruption
• flash

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

These outbursts can briefly outshine all of the other suns in these stars' galaxies. — Charles Q. Choi, Space.com, 21 July 2026

But coincidence – and a few other offensive outbursts – shouldn’t blind Cashman to the fact that the Yankees need help with Judge, out since May 31, and Stanton, sidelined since April 24, lacking clear timelines for a return to play. — Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 20 July 2026

There have been other outbursts of violence against immigrants. — ABC News, 13 July 2026

William also was not inclined to let himself be bothered by Harry’s outbursts over the past several weeks, the authors said. — Martha Ross, Mercury News, 13 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for outburst

• accursed
• amerced
• cloudburst
• coerced
• conversed
• disbursed
• dispersed
• headfirst
• immersed
• rehearsed
• reversed
• starburst

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