spurt
or spirt
[ spurt ]
/ spɜrt /
verb (used without object)
to gush or issue suddenly in a stream or jet, as a liquid; spout.
to show marked, usually increased, activity or energy for a short period: The runners spurted forward in the last lap of the race.
verb (used with object)
to expel or force out suddenly in a stream or jet, as a liquid; spout.
noun
a sudden, forceful gush or jet.
a marked increase of effort for a short period or distance, as in running, rowing, etc.
a sudden burst or outburst, as of activity, energy, or feeling.
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Nearby words
Origin of spurt
First recorded in 1560–70; variant of spirt; origin uncertain
Related forms
spurt·er, nounspur·tive, adjectivespur·tive·ly, adverbout·spurt, verb (used with object)Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for spurt
British Dictionary definitions for spurt
spurt
spirt
/ (spɜːt) /
verb
to gush or cause to gush forth in a sudden stream or jet
to make a sudden effort
noun
a sudden forceful stream or jet
a short burst of activity, speed, or energy
Word Origin for spurt
C16: perhaps related to Middle High German sprützen to squirt
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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