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Showing results for outbreak. Search instead for outbreaks/2.
Definitions

outbreak

[out-breyk] / ˈaʊtˌbreɪk /
NOUN
sudden happening
Synonyms
STRONGEST
crash disruption epidemic eruption explosion flare-up onset plague storm surge uprising
STRONG
beginning blowup brawl break breaking burst commencement commotion convulsion crack dawn detonation discharge disorder ebullition effervescence fit flash fury gush insurrection irruption mutiny outburst outpouring paroxysm rebellion revolution roar sally sortie spasm spurt thunder tumult volley
WEAK
bursting gushing rending sundering
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calm peace
STRONG
calmness completion conclusion continuity end ending finish harmony obedience order
WEAK
finale

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Dogs at the Chesterfield Square animal shelter have been kept inside their kennels for three weeks due to a giardia outbreak.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

With the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East, gold fell around 12% in March.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

Gold and silver have posted gains for four consecutive sessions, making up ground after the outbreak of the war in Iran made speculation on precious metals futures less attractive for investors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Could a patient sue a doctor who counsels against the measles vaccine in the midst of an outbreak?

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

And if Africa ever made the evening news, it was because of a disease outbreak.

From "How Dare the Sun Rise" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.