Spurt: meaning, definitions and examples

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spurt

[spɜːrt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in sports

A sudden burst of speed or energy, especially in the final stretch of a race. A spurt can give a competitor an advantage over others.

Synonyms

burst, rush, surge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spurt	Used to describe a short and rapid increase in activity, effort, or liquid flow. He gave a spurt of speed to catch the train The water came out in a sudden spurt
burst	Typically refers to a sudden and explosive increase or release, often involving something breaking open. The balloon burst with a loud noise She burst into tears when she heard the news
surge	Refers to a powerful, forward, or upward movement, commonly used in both literal and figurative senses. There was a huge surge of water during the storm The company experienced a surge in sales after the new product launch
rush	Often used to signify a hurried movement or effort, typically involving urgency or speed. I had to rush to the airport to catch my flight There was a rush of people at the store during the sale

Examples of usage

He made a spurt in the last few meters and crossed the finish line first.
The athlete's spurt in the last lap secured his victory.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

general

To gush or issue suddenly and with force. It can also refer to a sudden increase in activity or growth.

Synonyms

gush, shoot, spray.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spurt	Similar to the first 'spurt', implying a quick, sudden release of liquid. This re-iterates that the word commonly refers to short bursts. The soda spurted out of the can when she opened it. He had a spurt of inspiration during the meeting.
gush	Describes a large, uncontrolled flow of liquid, usually with some force. It often implies abundance and can be used both literally and figuratively. Blood gushed from the wound. She couldn't help but gush about her new boyfriend.
shoot	Often used to describe a forceful projection of liquid or a sudden, quick release of something. It can also be used metaphorically for rapid actions. The water shoots out of the fountain every hour. He shot the email to his boss just before the deadline.
spray	Refers to a dispersed, fine mist of liquid. It is generally used when the liquid spreads out into small droplets when released. She sprayed perfume on her wrists. The gardener used a hose to spray water over the flowers.

Examples of usage

The water spurted out of the broken pipe.
The flowers began to spurt up after the first spring rain.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'spurt' comes from the Middle English term 'sperten', meaning to shoot or spring.
It has connections to the Old French word 'espert', which refers to a sudden emission or spout, showing the link to something bursting out.
The earliest use in English dates back to the early 15th century, indicating its long-standing presence in language.

Science

In physics, a spurt can refer to a sudden release of energy or substance, like the way liquid fuels may spurt out under pressure.
Biologically, animals can have a spurt of speed or energy during a chase or to escape predators, showcasing instinctive reactions.
Water can spurt from geysers due to underground pressure, linking the concept to natural phenomena.

Pop Culture

The term 'growth spurt' is widely used in both media and medical discussions about the rapid physical development of children and teenagers.
In popular movies, characters often experience a sudden emotional spurt, leading to significant plot developments or character choices.
The phrase 'spurt of creativity' is commonly found in artistic discussions, illustrating how inspiration can arise suddenly and intensely.

Literature

Authors often use 'spurt' to describe moments of intense action or emotion to convey urgency in narrative, reflecting a character's sudden decision or reaction.
In poetry, a spurt of imagery can create vivid visuals, making the reader feel the suddenness of an event through descriptive language.
The use of this word is prevalent in children's books to depict exciting or dynamic scenes, like fireworks or bursting bubbles.

Psychology

In psychological terms, a 'spurt' can refer to sudden bursts of motivation or creativity, often linked to changes in environment or mood.
Researchers study learning spurts in children, observing how sudden increases in knowledge can occur after periods of slower learning.
Emotional spurts can be common in adolescents, contributing to unpredictable mood swings as their brains develop.

Translations

Translations of the word "spurt" in other languages:

🇵🇹 jato

🇮🇳 फुहार

🇩🇪 Strom

🇮🇩 semburan

🇺🇦 струмінь

🇵🇱 strumień

🇯🇵 噴出

🇫🇷 jet

🇪🇸 chorro

🇹🇷 fışkırma

🇰🇷 분출

🇸🇦 نفث

🇨🇿 proud

🇸🇰 prúd

🇨🇳 喷射

🇸🇮 brizganje

🇮🇸 gustur

🇰🇿 ағын

🇬🇪 შხეფი

🇦🇿 fışqırma

🇲🇽 chorro

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,554, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
20551 defraying
20552 musing
20553 navigators
20554 spurt
20555 disinfected
20556 evoking
20557 disengagement
...