Definition of outburstnext
1
as in explosion
a sudden intense expression of strong feeling the judge directed the courtroom spectators to refrain from any outbursts when the verdict was read

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2
3
as in eruption
the act or an instance of exploding in the outburst known as a supernova, the star may reach an intrinsic luminosity one billion times that of the sun

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of outburst During the international ceremony, the BBC broadcast an outburst from a Tourette’s campaigner that included a racial slur, which was uttered while the actors were on stage. Angelique Jackson, Variety, 1 Mar. 2026 Davidson has Tourette's with Coprolalia, which involves involuntary outbursts of obscene words or socially inappropriate and derogatory remarks, according to the Tourette Association of America. Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 1 Mar. 2026 In stressful situations, such as attending a high-stakes awards show, for example, tics can intensify; Davidson made other outbursts throughout the ceremony, and eventually decided to remove himself to a private screening room. Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 28 Feb. 2026 Olson hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key, took a charge against Okananwa and completed the outburst with a 3-pointer from the wing. ABC News, 28 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for outburst
Recent Examples of Synonyms for outburst
Noun
  • Others reported explosions around the Iranian city of Kermanshah in an area that is home to multiple missile bases.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Mar. 2026
  • Amid the explosions, internet blackouts, and continued uncertainty, some Iranians are seeking a way out.
    Kara Fox, CNN Money, 6 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Local experts break down what’s causing the flurry of biting insects in the winter.
    Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 28 Feb. 2026
  • That, combined with a flurry of other results across the Sun Belt, led to a nightmare scenario.
    Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 28 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Shares surged following the eruption of military strikes in the Middle East.
    Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 2 Mar. 2026
  • But backsliding vaccination rates have increased the risk of massive eruptions and now threaten the nation’s measles elimination status.
    Erika Edwards, NBC news, 1 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Shrimp is a quick-cooking springtime favorite, and it is accompanied by a burst of flavors in this recipe, which incorporates a craveable herby dressing.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 1 Mar. 2026
  • The burst was fueled by a pull-up jumper and a layup in a 14-second span by Howell.
    Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 1 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Eventually, this flash of hot, steamy water breaks through the ground in the form of a geyser.
    Madison Dapcevich, Outside, 4 Mar. 2026
  • Kimi Antonelli, who debuted with Mercedes last year at age 18, showed flashes of brilliance — and inconsistency — last season.
    Sahil Kapur, NBC news, 4 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Outburst.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/outburst. Accessed 8 Mar. 2026.

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