Stampede Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
stampede
[stรฆmหpiหd ]
Definitions
wild animals
A stampede is a sudden rush of a large group of animals or people, usually caused by fear or panic. It can result in injuries or deaths.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stampede |
When a large group of animals or people suddenly start running in the same direction, often due to fear or excitement.
|
| rush |
This is used when talking about people moving quickly toward or through a place, usually due to urgency or excitement.
|
| charge |
Used when describing a sudden, forceful movement forward, often by soldiers or animals in a battle or race.
|
| riot |
Refers to a violent disturbance by a crowd of people, often in protest against a government or societal issue. It carries a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- The stampede of wildebeests was a breathtaking sight.
- The crowd panicked and caused a stampede at the concert.
cause fear or panic
To stampede means to cause a group of animals or people to suddenly rush in a particular direction, usually due to fear or panic.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stampede |
Used when a large group of animals or people suddenly start running in the same direction, often because they are frightened.
|
| startle |
Used when someone is suddenly surprised or frightened by something unexpected, often causing a jump or quick reaction.
|
| spook |
Used when somebody or something is frightened or made nervous, often quietly or in a sneaky way; often associated with animals or skittish behaviors.
|
| scare |
Used in everyday situations when someone is frightened or made afraid, but is quite general and can describe any kind of fear.
|
Examples of usage
- The loud noise stampeded the herd of cattle.
- The false alarm stampeded the audience.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Animal Behavior
- Many herd animals, such as buffalo and wildebeest, may stampede due to fear, typically when they sense a predator.
- The phenomenon is not just limited to animals; humans have been known to stampede during emergencies, such as when trying to escape a fire.
Pop Culture
- Stampedes are often dramatized in movies, like chase scenes where characters flee from danger.
- The term is used metaphorically in sports context, like when a team has an unstoppable rush of scoring.
Safety and Psychology
- Psychologists study stampedes to understand crowd dynamics and how panic can lead to dangerous situations.
- Crowd management techniques focus on preventing stampedes, emphasizing clear exits and communication to maintain safety.
Origin of 'stampede'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'stampede' comes from the Spanish word 'estampida', which means a sudden movement or rushing.
- Initially used in the American cowboy culture, it referred to the sudden running of animals, especially cattle.
The word 'stampede' originated in the United States in the mid-19th century, derived from Spanish 'estampida' meaning a sudden rush or flight of animals. It was initially used in reference to cattle or horses running wild, and later extended to include human crowds. Stampedes have been a common occurrence in history, often leading to tragic consequences due to the sheer force and speed of the group movement.