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Erupt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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erupt

[ɪˈrʌpt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

volcano

To erupt means to explode or burst out suddenly, especially in a violent way. It is commonly used to describe the sudden release of lava, ash, and gases from a volcano.

Synonyms

blow up, burst, explode.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
erupt

Repeated entry, see previous description.

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

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
burst

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
blow up

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

Examples of usage

  • The volcano erupted, sending a plume of ash into the sky.
  • The volcano has been dormant for years, but it could erupt at any moment.
Context #2 | Verb

emotion

To erupt can also mean to suddenly express a strong emotion, such as anger or excitement, in a sudden and noisy way.

Synonyms

burst out, erupt in, explode.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
erupt

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.
explode

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.
burst out

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.
erupt in

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.

Examples of usage

  • He erupted in anger when he heard the news.
  • The crowd erupted in cheers as the winning goal was scored.
Context #3 | Noun

medical

An eruption refers to the sudden appearance of a skin condition, such as a rash or pimples.

Synonyms

flare-up, outbreak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
erupt

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.
outbreak

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.
flare-up

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.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor diagnosed the eruption as an allergic reaction.
  • The eruption on her skin caused itching and discomfort.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Natural Phenomena

  • Volcanic eruptions can create new landforms, sometimes leading to the creation of islands.
  • The force of erupting volcanoes can be so powerful that they affect climate and weather patterns worldwide.

Geography

  • Mount St. Helens in Washington erupted in 1980, resulting in one of the most dramatic volcanic eruptions in U.S. history.
  • The island of Krakatoa experienced a catastrophic eruption in 1883, which was heard thousands of miles away and caused tsunamis.

Science

  • Eruptions can release gases, dust, and ash, affecting air quality and leading to respiratory problems for nearby populations.
  • Scientists study eruptions to predict future volcanic activities and reduce risks to human populations.

Literature

  • Eruptions often serve as metaphors in literature, symbolizing sudden change or emotional outbursts.
  • In poetry, the imagery of erupting volcanoes can reflect inner turmoil, illustrating the conflict between calmness and chaos.

Origin of 'erupt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'erumpere', meaning 'to break out or burst forth'.
  • In Latin, 'e-' generally means 'out of' and 'rumpere' means 'to break', reflecting the idea of something bursting out.

The word 'erupt' comes from the Latin word 'eruptus', which is the past participle of 'erumpere', meaning 'to break out'. The term was first used in English in the early 17th century. Over the years, 'erupt' has been commonly associated with volcanic activity and the sudden release of emotions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,440, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.