burst
UK: bɜːst | US: bɜːrst
v. to break open or apart suddenly and violently
v. to suddenly express an emotion or action forcefully
n. a sudden instance of breaking or explosion
n. a brief, intense effort or outpouring
The word "burst" originates from Old English berstan, meaning "to break suddenly or violently." It shares roots with Old High German brestan and Old Norse bresta, all conveying explosive force or rupture. The word has retained its core meaning of sudden, forceful breaking or release, evolving to include emotional or energetic outbursts metaphorically.
The balloon burst when it touched the thorn.
She burst into tears after hearing the news.
A burst of laughter filled the room.
The dam burst under the pressure of the floodwaters.
He burst onto the scene with his groundbreaking research.