First Known Use: 1657
Dictionary
erupt
verb \i-ˈrəpt\
: to send out rocks, ash, lava, etc., in a sudden explosion; also : to come out in a sudden explosion
: to happen or begin suddenly and violently
: to begin doing something (such as shouting or applauding) suddenly
Full Definition of ERUPT
intransitive verb
1
a (1) : to burst from limits or restraint (2) of a tooth : to emerge through the gum b : to force out or release suddenly and often violently something (as lava or steam) that is pent up c : to become active or violent especially suddenly : break forth <war could erupt at any moment> <the audience erupted in applause>
2
: to break out with or as if with a skin eruption
transitive verb
: to force out or release usually suddenly and violently <a volcano erupting lava and ash>
— erupt·ible \-ˈrəp-tə-bəl\ adjective
— erup·tive \-tiv\ adjective
— erup·tive·ly adverb
See erupt defined for English-language learners
See erupt defined for kids
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Origin of ERUPT
Latin eruptus, past participle of erumpere to burst forth, from e- + rumpere to break — more at reave
ERUPT Defined for Kids
erupt
verb \i-ˈrəpt\
erupt·ederupt·ing
Definition of ERUPT for Kids
1
: to send out lava, rocks, and ash in a sudden explosion <The volcano erupted.>
2
: to burst out in a sudden explosion <Lava erupted from the volcano.>
3
: to happen, begin, or appear suddenly <War erupted.> <A rash erupted> on my skin.
Medical Dictionary
erupt
intransitive verb \i-ˈrəpt\
Medical Definition of ERUPT
1
of a tooth : to emerge through the gum
2
: to break out (as with a skin eruption)
—erup·tive \-tiv\ adjective
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