riotous

adjective

ri·​ot·​ous ˈrī-ə-təs How to pronounce riotous (audio)
Synonyms of riotousnext
1
a
: of the nature of a riot : turbulent
b
: participating in riot
2
: abundant, exuberant
the garden was riotous with flowers
riotously adverb
riotousness noun

Examples of riotous in a Sentence

a riotous profusion of flowers his riotous mugging always has everyone in hysterics
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.
The joyous if relatively restrained gathering was the culmination of the riotous nationwide celebrations that had broken out on the evening of April 12, when the results of the parliamentary elections came in. Gordon F. Sander, The New York Review of Books, 4 July 2026 Guns is an actor and writer, known for her razor-sharp observations and riotous voice. Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 July 2026 The Musical’ Baz Luhrmann’s 2011 movie musical is lush and riotous. Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 22 June 2026 Although every room’s layout and decoration is slightly different, the overriding effect is riotous pattern (wallpaper and fabrics match), sumptuous layering (throws and cushions galore), elegant mirrors and original art. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for riotous

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of riotous was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riotous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riotous. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

riotous

adjective
ri·​ot·​ous ˈrī-ət-əs How to pronounce riotous (audio)
1
a
: of the nature of a riot
b
: taking part in rioting
2
: abundant
a garden riotous with flowers
riotously adverb

Legal Definition

riotous

adjective
ri·​ot·​ous ˈrī-ə-təs How to pronounce riotous (audio)
1
: of the nature of a riot
riotous conduct
2
: participating in a riot
a riotous assemblage

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