Blurted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blurted

[blɜːrtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

speaking suddenly

To blurt out something means to say something suddenly and without thinking, often revealing information that was meant to be kept secret. The act of blurting is often associated with impulsiveness, where the speaker fails to control their impulse to speak, leading to unintended consequences. It can refer to unplanned comments during a conversation or revealing embarrassing information. This often leads to regret once the person realizes the impact of their words.

Synonyms

exclaim, let slip, reveal, spill.

Examples of usage

  • She blurted out the surprise party details.
  • He blurted his thoughts without considering her feelings.
  • Don't blurt out the answer in class.
  • I accidentally blurted my secret.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Blurting can sometimes be a sign of impulsivity, where someone speaks before thinking due to excitement or nervousness.
  • In conversations, blurting out a thought might interrupt the flow, affecting social dynamics and relationships.
  • It's often a behavior noted in children, especially those needing support with self-control during discussions.

Pop Culture

  • Blurting out secrets has been a common trope in TV shows and movies, often leading to comedic situations or dramatic reveals.
  • Reality TV often features contestants blurting out their thoughts, which can lead to conflict or funny moments.

Education

  • Blurting in a classroom setting can disrupt learning; teachers encourage raising hands to promote patience and respect.
  • Some educational strategies involve turn-taking to help reduce blurting, teaching children about listening and responding.

Communication

  • Effective communication often requires filtering thoughts before speaking; blurting can lead to misunderstandings.
  • People may blurt out when they're excited, anxious, or under pressure, as emotions can take over logical thinking.

Origin of 'blurted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'blurt' comes from the 16th century, originally used to describe making a noise or sound suddenly.
  • It evolved from the Middle English word 'blert', which meant to cry out or to emit a sound.

The word 'blurt' originates from the early 20th century and is believed to derive from the dialectical use in English, where it conveyed the action of speaking suddenly or carelessly. The verb form suggests an explosive or uncontrolled release of words, much like a sudden screech or burst. The suffix 'ed' indicates its usage in the past tense, thus referring to an action that has already occurred. The evolution of the term reflects cultural attitudes towards speech and the importance of discretion, showcasing how language evolves as societal values change. Over the years, the term has maintained its association with impulsivity and lack of forethought, and it remains popular in various contexts, especially in informal conversations.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,221, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.