Erupt: meaning, definitions and examples

Repeated entry, see previous description.

• The volcano is expected to erupt soon
• She erupted in anger after hearing the news

Refers to a violent release of energy causing destruction, often with sound, and also used for strong emotions or growth.

• The building exploded after the gas leak
• The company's sales exploded last quarter
• He exploded with joy when he won the lottery

Describes something breaking open suddenly due to pressure or sudden excitement.

• The water balloon burst when it hit the ground
• She burst into tears after reading the heartfelt letter

Commonly used to describe an explosion, often of a man-made object, or someone losing their temper.

• The gas station blew up after the fire reached the tanks
• He blew up when he found out someone had stolen his bike

When something like a volcano or an emotion suddenly and violently starts. It is often used to describe natural phenomena or intense reactions.

• The volcano erupted last night, causing widespread panic.
• Laughter erupted from the crowd after the comedian's joke.

Used when describing a physical explosion, such as a bomb, or when describing someone suddenly expressing a strong emotion very forcefully and aggressively. Has a slightly negative connotation when referring to emotions.

• The bomb exploded in the city center.
• He exploded with anger when he saw the damage to his car.

Used when someone suddenly starts to speak, laugh, or cry loudly and with strong emotion.

• She burst out laughing when she saw the funny costume.
• He burst out crying when he heard the bad news.

When a crowd or group of people suddenly starts to show an intense emotion, such as laughter, applause, or chaos.

• The audience erupted in applause after the concert.
• The classroom erupted in chaos when the fire alarm went off.

Use for describing violent natural events or strong emotional outbursts.

• The volcano is expected to erupt next week.
• He erupted in anger when he heard the news.

Specific for the sudden start of something, usually used for diseases, conflicts, or large-scale events. It generally has a negative connotation.

• There was an outbreak of flu in the school.
• The outbreak of war caused widespread panic.

Best for describing sudden increases in intensity of illness, emotions, or conflict. It often implies a temporary situation.

• She experienced a flare-up of her arthritis.
• There was a sudden flare-up of tensions between the two countries.