Irruption Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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irruption

[ɪˈrʌpʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sudden invasion

Irruption refers to a sudden or violent invasion or entry into a space. It can be used in various contexts, such as wildlife behavior when animals suddenly invade an area or in sociopolitical discussions about abrupt demographic changes. The term emphasizes the unexpected nature of the occurrence, often leading to chaos or disturbance. In ecology, irruption describes a rapid increase in animal populations that can disrupt ecosystems.

Synonyms

breakthrough, incursion, invasion, outburst.

Examples of usage

  • The irruption of tourists during the holiday season.
  • The irruption of a flock of birds into the cornfield.
  • The sudden irruption of new ideas in the market.

Translations

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Origin of 'irruption'

The word 'irruption' originates from the Latin 'irruptio', which means 'a breaking in'. This Latin term is derived from 'irumpere', where 'in-' means 'into' and 'rumpere' means 'to break'. The concept has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe sudden and often disruptive occurrences. In modern usage, it has expanded beyond its original contexts, finding applications in environmental studies, sociology, and border control discussions. The evolution of the term reflects changes in how we understand and describe rapid disruptions in nature and society.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,035, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.