Meaning

(intransitive) To eject something violently (such as lava or water, as from a volcano or geyser)..

Definitions by Sense

1. (intransitive) To eject something violently (such as lava or water, as from a volcano or geyser).
2. (intransitive) To burst forth; to break out.
3. (intransitive, figuratively) To spontaneously release pressure or tension.
4. (intransitive, biology) (Of birds, insects, etc.) To suddenly appear in a certain region in large numbers.

Example Sentences

The volcano erupted, spewing lava across a wide area.

The third molar tooth erupts late in most people, and sometimes does not appear at all.

The crowd erupted in anger.

The whole table erupted in laughter.

And Stamford Bridge erupted with joy as Florent Malouda slotted in a cross from Drogba, who had stayed just onside.

Some of the most beautiful and thus appealing physical theories, including quantum electrodynamics and quantum gravity, have been dogged for decades by infinities that erupt when theorists try to prod their calculations into new domains. Getting rid of these nagging infinities has probably occupied far more effort than was spent in originating the theories.

After particularly good seasons, flocks "erupt" from their breeding grounds and appear in reed beds where they have not been seen for years, if ever.

Word Forms

• erupts
• erupting
• erupted

Synonyms for erupt

Related Words

When Should You Use Erupt?

Use erupt when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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