irrupt

[ ih-ruhpt ]

verb (used without object)

1. to break or burst in suddenly.
2. to manifest violent activity or emotion, as a group of persons.
3. (of animals) to increase suddenly in numbers through a lessening of the number of deaths.

irrupt

/ ɪˈrʌpt /

verb

1. to enter forcibly or suddenly
2. (of a plant or animal population) to enter a region suddenly and in very large numbers
3. (of a population) to increase suddenly and greatly

Derived Forms

• irˈruption, noun

Other Words From

• unir·rupted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of irrupt¹

1850–55; < Latin irruptus; irruption

Word History and Origins

Origin of irrupt¹

C19: from Latin irrumpere to rush into, invade, from rumpere to break, burst

Related Words

• brim
• bubble over
• cascade
• deluge
• drain
• drown
• engulf
• gush
• inundate
• leak
• overrun
• pour
• run over
• soak
• spill
• spill over
• submerge
• swamp