outburst

noun

out·​burst ˈau̇t-ˌbərst How to pronounce outburst (audio)
Synonyms of outburstnext
1
: a violent expression of feeling
an outburst of anger
2
: a surge of activity or growth
… new outbursts of creative power …—C. E. Montague
3
: eruption
volcanic outbursts

Synonyms of outburst

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Examples of outburst in a Sentence

the judge directed the courtroom spectators to refrain from any outbursts when the verdict was read there was a remarkable outburst of work in the office as the visiting VIPs made their tour
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Edmunds tossed a 31-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Kye Crump to ignite a 21-point outburst in the first quarter. — Dan Albano, Oc Register, 28 Aug. 2026 At least that bad-optics outburst, while insubordinate, had something noble at its basis. — Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 This woman reportedly had already been receiving unwanted and threatening messages, and investigators concluded that Zhou’s AI conversations showed something more than a momentary angry outburst. — Matthew T. Christ, Sun Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026 The 36-year-old Hubble also is dropping in orbit because of the sun’s recent outbursts. — Marcia Dunn, Los Angeles Times, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for outburst

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outburst was in 1657

Rhymes for outburst

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Browse Nearby Words

outburn
outburst
outbuy
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Cite this Entry

“Outburst.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outburst. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

outburst

noun
out·​burst -ˌbərst How to pronounce outburst (audio)
1
: a sudden violent expression of strong feeling
an outburst of anger
2
: a sudden increase in activity or growth
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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