outburst

UK: ˈaʊtbɜːst | US: ˈaʊtbɜːrst

Definition

  1. n. a sudden, violent release of emotion or energy

  2. n. a sudden eruption or explosion

Structure
out <external>burst <break suddenly>
Etymology

The word "outburst" combines "out," from Old English ūt (meaning "external" or "away"), and "burst," from Old English berstan (meaning "to break violently"). The fusion reflects a vivid image of energy or emotion breaking outward suddenly, akin to an explosion. This logical pairing has retained its expressive force since Middle English.

Examples

  1. Her sudden outburst of anger startled everyone in the room.

  2. The volcano’s outburst sent ash miles into the sky.

  3. He tried to suppress an outburst of laughter during the meeting.

  4. The political leader’s outburst was widely criticized.

  5. Solar flares are massive outbursts of energy from the sun.