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.

But following the Bolshevik takeover and the outbreak of civil war, the revolutionaries wanted to ensure that reactionary forces would never rescue Nicholas and Alexandra to reinstate the monarchy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Yet the S&P 500 is higher, energy stocks are lower and the VIX “fear gauge” is down since the outbreak of hostilities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

The shift comes as energy prices have surged following the outbreak of war with Iran, pushing headline inflation higher while core inflation has remained relatively contained.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

An overwhelming majority of them, 90%, were linked to an outbreak.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

There was a fervid outbreak of new beliefs.

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers

Vocabulary lists containing outbreak

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Talk Like Shakespeare Day, List 6

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

“Vaccine Controversy Shows Why We Need Markets, Not Mandates” by Ron Paul

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!