boil-over

[ boil-oh-ver ]

noun

, Australian and New Zealand Slang.

1. an unexpected result.

boil over

verb

1. to overflow or cause to overflow while boiling
2. intr to burst out in anger or excitement

   she boiled over at the mention of his name

Word History and Origins

Origin of boil-over¹

Noun use of verb phrase boil over

Idioms and Phrases

Erupt in anger, excitement, or other strong emotion. For example, The mere mention of a tax increase will make Kevin boil over . This phrase alludes to overflowing while boiling. [Second half of 1800s]

Example Sentences

Businesses are suffering more each day in an area where the rents are extortionate, and the situation could boil over soon.

From The Daily Beast

But eventually, you need to have that conversation, otherwise it will boil over.

From The Daily Beast

The moment came for the three-week conflict between pro-Russian authorities and the pro-E.U. opposition to boil over.

From The Daily Beast

Add the shrimp stock and Worcestershire sauce and bring to a boil over high heat.

From The Daily Beast

And with that, tensions between Michael and Dunder Mifflin's HR rep boil over.

From The Daily Beast

Coranda killed him, skinned him, cut him up with the meat and vegetables, and put the whole to boil over the kitchen fire.

From Project Gutenberg

Huge breakers, urged on by the southeast monsoon, boil over these rocks from one year's end to the next.

From Project Gutenberg

Ned knew well enough that nothing ailed his horse, but he was so mad, he had to go out doors, for fear he'd boil over.

From Project Gutenberg

If you should pour the water all in at once the sugar would simply boil over and burn you.

From Project Gutenberg

An insolent laugh from the miller, as he arose from his seat, almost made the young man's passion boil over.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• aggravate
• annoy
• antagonize
• arouse
• displease
• embitter
• enrage
• exacerbate
• exasperate
• excite
• incense
• inflame
• infuriate
• irritate
• offend
• outrage
• provoke
• rankle
• rile