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

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

Packing the Cooler Packing up drinks and snacks for a picnic, beach day, or lake day is a big task, and little hands were called on to choose the must-haves (lest grandma risk a tantrum on location). — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 July 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