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Eruption Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eruption

[ɪˈrʌpʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

volcano

The eruption is the sudden and violent release of gases, ash, and magma from a volcano. It can result in lava flows, ash clouds, and pyroclastic flows.

Synonyms

eruptive activity, explosion, outburst.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
eruption

Same word as above, used again likely due to a typo.

  • The eruption of Kilauea caused widespread damage.
outburst

Commonly refers to a sudden release of strong emotion, often uncontrollable or unexpected.

  • He apologized for his angry outburst during the meeting.
  • Her sudden outburst of laughter surprised everyone.
explosion

Often refers to a sudden and violent release of energy, can be natural or man-made, such as a bomb or a chemical reaction.

  • The gas leak caused a massive explosion.
  • The explosion of the fireworks lit up the sky.
eruptive activity

Used in a scientific or geological context to describe ongoing or periodic volcanic events.

  • Eruptive activity at the volcano has increased recently.
  • Scientists monitor eruptive activity to predict future eruptions.

Examples of usage

  • The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD buried the Roman city of Pompeii.
  • The volcanic eruption in Iceland disrupted air travel across Europe in 2010.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Geology

  • Eruptions can vary widely, with some causing gentle lava flows and others resulting in explosive events that throw ash high into the atmosphere.
  • Certain types of eruptions, like those from shield volcanoes, create broad, gently sloping sides as they ooze lava instead of exploding violently.

Pop Culture

  • Eruptions have been featured in many movies, including 'Dante's Peak' and 'Volcano', captivating audiences with their dramatic effects.
  • The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens is one of the most studied events in recent history and has inspired numerous documentaries and articles.

History

  • The eruption of Pompeii in 79 AD buried the city under volcanic ash, preserving it for centuries and offering us detailed insights into Roman life.
  • Krakatoa's eruption in 1883 was one of the most violent in recorded history, causing tsunamis and noticeable changes in global temperatures.

Environmental Impact

  • Eruptions can change climate patterns by releasing ash and gases into the atmosphere, sometimes leading to cooler weather for years.
  • They can also create new landforms and ecosystems, as the lava solidifies and forms new rock, providing a fresh canvas for nature.

Origin of 'eruption'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'eruptio', meaning 'to break out', perfectly describing what happens during an eruption.
  • It combines the prefix 'e-' (out of) and 'rumpere' (to break), highlighting the action of breaking through the surface.

The word 'eruption' originated from the Latin word 'eruptio', which means a bursting forth. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe the sudden release of materials from a volcano. Throughout history, volcanic eruptions have fascinated and terrified people, leading to scientific studies and improved monitoring to mitigate their impact on human lives and the environment.

See also: erupted, erupting, eruptions.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,785 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.