tantrum

American  

[tan-truhm] / ˈtæn trəm /

noun

1. a violent demonstration of rage or frustration; a sudden burst of ill temper.

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verb (used without object)

1. to have a tantrum.

   Don't give in to your grandson every time he tantrums.

tantrum British  

/ ˈtæntrəm /

noun

1. (often plural) a childish fit of rage; outburst of bad temper

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Usage

What does tantrum mean? A tantrum is an angry outburst by someone who has lost their temper in reaction to something they didn’t want to happen. The term temper tantrum means the same thing.Tantrums are often loud and they can be violent. A child kicking and screaming in response to being told to turn off the TV is having a tantrum.The term is often used to refer to an outburst by a young child, especially a toddler. But it can also be used to refer to an outburst by an adult. When used this way, it’s intended to criticize the person for being unreasonable and acting like a child.Tantrum is often used with the verb throw, as in My son threw a tantrum right in the middle of the store.Less commonly, tantrum can be used as a verb meaning to throw a tantrum, as in She tantrums when she doesn’t get a treat. Example: I work in customer service, so I’m used to dealing with tantrums from people who don’t get their way.

Etymology

Origin of tantrum

First recorded in 1740–50; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

The dragons are so nasty they make those in “Game of Thrones” look like toddlers having tantrums.

From The Wall Street Journal

When his son threatens to have a tantrum, for example, they practise "shaking it out" together - processing the emotions safely.

From BBC

Children are naturally excited on Christmas day - but that burst of energy often means big exhausted emotions later on, tantrums and tears included.

From BBC

Initially, it was supposed to seat 650 people in 90,000 square feet, but he kept throwing tantrums about how he wanted it bigger.

From Salon

The mild-mannered yet imposingly masculine Andrew is quietly appealing as he deals with his erratic wife’s sudden tantrums and plate-shattering outbursts.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• flare-up
• outburst
• temper