stampede
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /stæmˈpiːd/
KK: /stæmˈpiːd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To run away suddenly and quickly in a large group, often in a panic or due to fear.
Example
When the fire alarm went off, the crowd began to stampede towards the exits.
Tense Forms
Past: stampeded
Past Participle: stampeded
Conversation
Did you see that crowd at the concert last night?
Yeah, it was crazy! I heard they had to stampede out when the fire alarm went off.
Wow, that sounds terrifying!
I know, right? I would have been so scared in that stampede.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rush
charge
hasten
Antonyms
linger
tarry
pause
noun
Definition
A sudden rush or flight of a large group of people or animals, often caused by panic or excitement.
Example
The stampede at the concert caused many people to fall and get injured.
Conversation
Did you hear about the stampede at the concert last night?
Yeah, I can't believe so many people rushed in all at once!
It must have been so chaotic when that happened.
transitive verb
Definition
To make a large group of people or animals move quickly and chaotically, often due to fear or excitement.
Example
The loud noise caused the crowd to stampede towards the exit.
Tense Forms
Past: stampeded
Past Participle: stampeded
Conversation
Did you hear about that concert last night?
Yeah, I saw videos online; it looked amazing!
Apparently, someone stampeded the crowd when the band came on stage.
Root Explanation
Stampede originates from the Spanish word 'estampida', which means a sudden rush or stampede, derived from 'estampar' (to stamp or to print). The word describes a sudden, panicked rush of animals or people, often caused by fear.
Memory Tip
Imagine a sudden 'rush' ('estampida') of animals or people 'stamping' their feet in panic — that's what a stampede means.
Visually Confused Words
estampede
unstampeded
estampedero
unstamped
stapled