surge
UK: sɜːdʒ | US: sɜːrdʒ
n. a sudden powerful forward or upward movement
n. a sudden large increase in something (e.g., demand, power)
vi. to move suddenly and powerfully forward or upward
vi. to increase suddenly and strongly
The word "surge" traces back to Latin surgere, which literally meant "to rise up" (from sub- + regere). It entered English via Old French sourdre ("to rise, swell"). Originally used for literal rising (e.g., waves), it later expanded metaphorically to describe sudden increases in abstract concepts like power or demand. The silent -e reflects its French influence.
A sudden surge of water flooded the streets.
The hospital faced a surge in patients during the flu season.
Emotions surged through her as she heard the news.
Solar energy production surges on sunny days.
The crowd surged forward when the gates opened.