Outbursts: meaning, definitions and examples

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outbursts

 

[ ˈaʊtbɜrsts ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

emotional expression

An outburst is a sudden release of emotion or energy, typically in the form of anger or excitement. It can occur in various situations, often unexpectedly, and may affect those around the individual experiencing the outburst.

Synonyms

burst, eruption, explosion, fit

Examples of usage

  • His outbursts of anger shocked everyone in the meeting.
  • She had an outburst of laughter that filled the room.
  • The child's outburst led to a conversation about emotions.
  • During the debate, there were several outbursts from the audience.

Word origin

The word 'outburst' is derived from the prefix 'out-', meaning 'outward or away', and the root 'burst', which comes from the Old English 'berstan', meaning 'to break'. The term gained prominence in the English language in the late 19th century, particularly as it began to describe sudden emotional expressions or explosive reactions. Its usage has evolved to encompass various forms of emotional and physical eruptions, making it a versatile term in both psychological and everyday contexts. Outbursts can refer to moments of joy, anger, or frustration and are often seen in literature and media as hallmark expressions of human emotion.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,741, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.