outburst

[ out-burst ]

noun

1. a sudden and violent release or outpouring:

   an outburst of tears.

2. a sudden spell of activity, energy, etc.
3. a public disturbance; riot; outbreak.
4. a bursting forth; eruption.

outburst

/ ˈaʊtˌbɜːst /

noun

1. a sudden and violent expression of emotion
2. an explosion or eruption

Word History and Origins

Origin of outburst¹

First recorded in 1650–60; out- + burst

Example Sentences

And did you know it was going to happen because of War Machine's outburst at your birthday party back in 2009?

From The Daily Beast

The extraordinary outburst was directed at Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, a political pundit who moved to Britain from Uganda in 1972.

From The Daily Beast

When television news crews showed up at his house to ask about the outburst, he said he “felt like a star.”

From The Daily Beast

I ask if the ferocity of his violent outburst surprised him and he says yes, it did.

From The Daily Beast

This close alliance is now straining after a rare outburst from the UAE.

From The Daily Beast

Then—(with difficulty restraining another outburst of mirth)—how about "27 for oysters and Chablis" after the visit?

From Project Gutenberg

Thereupon the unhappy woman acted; the long suppressed outburst came at last.

From Project Gutenberg

Even her violent outburst of temper had not stilled the insistent voice which in reiteration never wearied.

From Project Gutenberg

As Mr. Mason finished the services and sat down, he was startled with an outburst of "Shall we meet beyond the river."

From Project Gutenberg

In a sudden outburst of jealous hate, Helene pushed the little Charles into the Bievre, where he was drowned.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• burst
• eruption
• explosion
• flare-up
• frenzy
• outbreak
• outpouring
• spasm
• storm
• surge
• tantrum
• upheaval