tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm 

: a fit of bad temper

Synonyms of tantrum

• huff
• outburst
• scene
• explosion
• reaction
• fit
• fireworks
• frenzy
• rage

Examples of tantrum in a Sentence

had a tantrum when he found his little sister using his model paints

Recent Examples on the Web

As well as addressing Paramount’s purported temper tantrum about an exodus from California, Newsom today also offered some guidance on his thoughts about the lawsuit fronted in some ways by California Attorney General Rob Bonta. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 21 Aug. 2026

Not every thought needs a camera or every tantrum a national event. — Rachel Marsden, Hartford Courant, 15 Aug. 2026

Developmental pediatrician Carrie Cuffman told the Cleveland Clinic that attention-seeking tantrums are one case where staying out of it can help. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 11 Aug. 2026

The easiest way to differentiate a tantrum from restraint collapse is to pay attention to how your child reacts to intervention during a meltdown. — Liz Regalia, Parents, 2 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tantrum

• have/throw/pitch a tantrum

Rhymes for tantrum

• antrum

Kids Definition

tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm 

: a fit of bad temper

Medical Definition

tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm 

: a fit of bad temper