Erupting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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erupting

[ɪˈrʌptɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

volcano

Erupting refers to the process of a volcano releasing ash, lava, and gases into the air. It is a sudden and violent event that can have devastating consequences.

Synonyms

bursting, exploding, spewing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
erupting

This word is best suited for describing a sudden release or outbreak, often related to natural phenomena like volcanoes or violence.

  • The volcano has been erupting for hours, spewing ash into the sky.
  • Emotions were erupting during the protest as tensions ran high.
exploding

This word is ideal for describing a violent and sudden burst, often involving loud sounds and destruction; it also carries a dramatic and negative connotation.

  • The fireworks were exploding in the sky, creating a beautiful display.
  • The building exploded due to a gas leak, causing significant damage.
bursting

Use 'bursting' when something breaks open suddenly and forcefully, often related to containers or intense emotions.

  • The balloon is bursting with air and might pop any moment.
  • She was bursting with excitement when she heard the news.
spewing

Use 'spewing' when something is being forcefully ejected, especially fluids or particles, often in an uncontrolled and continuous manner.

  • The broken pipe was spewing water all over the floor.
  • The volcano was spewing lava and ash, causing nearby villages to evacuate.

Examples of usage

  • The volcano has been erupting for several days, causing widespread panic among the local residents.
  • After years of dormancy, the volcano suddenly started erupting, catching everyone by surprise.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Volcanology

  • The most famous eruption in history is Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, which buried the city of Pompeii under ash.
  • Eruptions can be explosive or gentle; explosive eruptions send ash and lava high into the air, while gentle ones create lava flows.
  • Not all eruptions are volcanic; geysers erupt water and steam from underground, showcasing nature's power in a different way.

Language

  • The word 'erupt' comes from the Latin 'erumpere', meaning 'to break out,' combining 'e-' (out) and 'rumpere' (to break).
  • In everyday language, 'erupting' can describe anything that bursts forth, like emotions erupting during a heated argument.
  • Synonyms for 'erupting' include bursting, exploding, and surging, which can add variety to descriptions in writing.

Science

  • In biology, the term is used to describe how certain organisms release spores or seeds rapidly when conditions are right.
  • Diseases can also be described as erupting when symptoms suddenly appear, reflecting a quick onset of illness.
  • Studies on social behavior have observed that emotions can erupt in social settings, impacting group dynamics significantly.

Literature

  • Erupting emotions are often a common theme in poetry and stories, symbolizing characters' tumultuous feelings.
  • Authors use the idea of 'erupting' to create tension and climax in narratives, making readers feel the intensity.
  • Dramatic scenes in plays, like a character's anger erupting, captivate audience attention and convey deeper meanings.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often show volcanoes erupting as an exciting, thrilling event, capturing both danger and beauty.
  • In video games, 'erupting' can describe a power-up or action where characters unleash their full potential in battle.
  • Music can erupt with energy too, especially in genres like rock or hip-hop, where sudden changes amplify the experience.

Origin of 'erupting'

The word 'erupting' originates from the Latin word 'erumpere', which means 'to break out'. The term was first used in the context of volcanic eruptions in the mid-18th century. Since then, it has been widely used to describe the sudden release of volcanic materials from a volcano.


See also: erupted, eruption, eruptions.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,285, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.