Inrush Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Add to dictionary

inrush

[ˈɪnˌrʌʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

electricity

A sudden rush of current at the beginning of a short circuit or when a load is first connected to a circuit.

Synonyms

burst, spike, surge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
inrush

Use 'inrush' when referring to a sudden flow or movement of something, often in a technical or engineering context, such as electricity or fluids.

  • The inrush of water caused the dam to overflow.
  • An inrush current can damage the electrical components.
surge

Use 'surge' for a strong, powerful forward or upward movement, often used to describe waves, electricity, or large groups of people.

  • The crowd surged forward when the concert began.
  • The sudden power surge caused the lights to flicker.
spike

Use 'spike' when there is a sharp, temporary rise in something, often used in literal or figurative contexts like prices, temperatures, or emotions.

  • There was a sudden spike in electricity usage during the heatwave.
  • The data showed a spike in internet traffic after the announcement.
burst

Use 'burst' when something breaks open suddenly, releasing energy or material, often with some drama or sudden impact.

  • The balloon burst when it touched the sharp object.
  • He felt a burst of adrenaline as he ran towards the goal.

Examples of usage

  • The inrush of current can cause damage to the circuit components.
  • The inrush current rating of the circuit breaker is crucial for protecting the system.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A sudden and powerful forward movement or flow.

Synonyms

influx, inundation, surge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
inrush

Typically used to describe a sudden and strong entry of something, often referring to water, people, or electrical current.

  • There was an inrush of water when the dam broke
  • The inrush of fans overwhelmed the small venue
surge

Describes a sudden powerful forward or upward movement, usually involving fluids, crowds, or even emotions. It can carry strong and often dramatic implications.

  • There was a surge of adrenaline as she approached the finish line
  • The surge in electricity caused the lights to flicker
influx

Often refers to the arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things, generally in a more sustained manner compared to 'inrush'.

  • The city experienced an influx of tourists during the summer
  • The influx of new students challenged the school's resources
inundation

Mainly used when something is overwhelmed by vast amounts of water, information, or things, often with a slightly negative connotation.

  • The town suffered from an inundation after the heavy rains
  • The office faced an inundation of emails after the announcement

Examples of usage

  • The inrush of water flooded the streets after the heavy rain.
  • The inrush of people at the concert overwhelmed the security staff.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In hydraulic engineering, inrush refers to the sudden influx of water into a reservoir or system, which can significantly affect operational conditions.
  • In electrical circuits, an inrush current is the maximum current drawn by the equipment when it is first turned on, which is typically much higher than the operating current.
  • Inrush can also apply to gaseous systems, where a quick flow of gas into a confined space can cause pressure fluctuations.

Pop Culture

  • In popular films depicting natural disasters, inrush is often portrayed through tsunami waves or floodwaters overwhelming a city.
  • Songs about storms and rushes evoke the feeling of sudden changes, reflecting the emotional inrush one might feel in intense situations.
  • In video games, the term is sometimes used to describe abilities where characters rush into action swiftly, creating exciting visuals.

Literature

  • Authors often use inrush metaphorically to illustrate a character's overwhelming feelings or experiences, like a flood of emotions in response to life events.
  • In poetry, an inrush can symbolize sudden inspiration or creativity that overtakes a writer, akin to a wave of ideas flooding their mind.
  • In novels, moments of inrush can be pivotal plot points where characters face unforeseen challenges that change their course.

Psychology

  • The term inrush can also describe how emotions can flood into consciousness quickly, reflecting the mental state of a person during crises.
  • In psychological contexts, individuals might describe an inrush of memories or feelings during therapy sessions, leading to breakthroughs.
  • Understanding emotional inrushes can help in managing stress responses or anxiety, as recognizing them can aid in processing feelings.

Origin of 'inrush'

Main points about word origin

  • The word is derived from the combination of 'in', meaning to enter, and 'rush', meaning to move swiftly.
  • It has been in use since the late 19th century, indicating quick, forceful movements, especially in engineering contexts.
  • The concept can relate to various forces, from water in floods to electrical currents.

The word 'inrush' originated from the combination of 'in' and 'rush'. It first appeared in the mid-19th century. The term is commonly used in the fields of electricity and general movement to describe a sudden and powerful flow or movement.


See also: bulrush, rush, rushed, rushing, unrushed.