Definition

A sudden and strong expression of emotion or activity, often unexpected and intense.

Example

His outburst of anger surprised everyone in the room.

Conversation

Did you see his outburst during the meeting yesterday?

Yeah, it was pretty unexpected!

I wonder what triggered that kind of outburst from him.

Maybe he was just overwhelmed; it happens to the best of us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Outburst → It is formed from "out-" (meaning outside or outward) and "burst" (from Old English "berstan", meaning to break or explode). The word "outburst" describes a sudden breaking forth of emotion or energy from within to the outside.

Memory Tip

Think of something breaking forth from the inside to the outside — 'out-' means outward, and 'burst' means to break. This helps you remember that an outburst is a sudden release of emotion.

Visually Confused Words