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

And somehow, the process managed to produce a nation where children curse, dream, and throw tantrums in Hebrew without anyone feeling for a moment as if they were trapped in a historical reënactment. — Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 July 2026

In the short term, giving in to whining or a demand made during a tantrum can feel like the easier solution. — Melissa Willets, Parents, 19 July 2026

For months, conservatives like Elon Musk have been having racist tantrums about Nolan’s decision to cast Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o as Helen of Troy, the most beautiful woman in the ancient world. — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 15 July 2026

Meanwhile, Springfield Democrats shouldn’t be quaking in their shoes at this temper tantrum from their cronies in organized labor. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 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