erupted; erupting; erupts
Synonyms 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 (such 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
eruptively adverb

Examples of erupt in a Sentence

The volcano erupted with tremendous force. A bitter dispute has erupted among the members of the team.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Internal disputes have erupted over how best to expand the business and promote content on the platform to boost audience engagement, according to former Netflix employees and industry insiders who spoke to The Times. — Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2026 Similar protests have erupted across Europe, from Spain to Serbia. — Suzanne Nuyen, NPR, 26 Oct. 2026 The threat of an ammonia leak from a burning seafood plant in a coastal Oregon city has been contained, authorities said, hours after a fire erupted, prompting evacuations over fears of potential health risks. — Eduardo Cuevas, CNN Money, 25 Oct. 2026 Dorgham Halasa told the AP that intense gunfire erupted in the church some 15 minutes after the funeral service began. — James Cirrone, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for erupt

Word History

Etymology

Latin eruptus, past participle of erumpere to burst forth, from e- + rumpere to break — more at reave

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a(1)

Time Traveler
The first known use of erupt was in 1657

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Erupt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/erupt. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: to burst forth or cause to burst forth : explode
2
: to break through a surface
teeth erupting from the gum
3
: to break out with or as if with a skin eruption

Medical Definition

1
of a tooth : to emerge through the gum
2
: to break out (as with a skin eruption)
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