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Spurt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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?

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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?

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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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'spurt'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'spurt' originated in the mid-16th century, and it is believed to have come from the Middle Low German word 'spurten,' meaning 'to make haste.' Over time, it evolved to its current usage in both noun and verb forms, reflecting the idea of sudden, rapid movement or growth.

See also: spur, spurious.

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.