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

• 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

That leaves Maria to take matters into her own hands when the boy’s latest outburst lands meek would-be teacher’s pet Pauline (Nia Brown, another gifted first-timer) with a broken arm. —Guy Lodge, Variety, 24 Sep. 2025

Doja Cat has long a history of online outbursts and sharp words for even her fans. —Mankaprr Conteh, Rolling Stone, 23 Sep. 2025

After a while new outbursts of rage may renew the struggle, but, each time this happens, weeping is interrupted. —Big Think, 23 Sep. 2025

This can lead to rapid mood swings, difficulty controlling emotions, aggressiveness, and outbursts. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 22 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for outburst

• amerced
• cloudburst
• coerced
• conversed
• disbursed
• dispersed
• headfirst
• immersed
• rehearsed
• reversed
• submersed
• sunburst

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