boil-over

[ boil-oh-ver ]

noun

, Australian and New Zealand Slang.

1. an unexpected result.

boil over

verb

1. to overflow or cause to overflow while boiling
2. intr to burst out in anger or excitement

   she boiled over at the mention of his name

Word History and Origins

Origin of boil-over¹

Noun use of verb phrase boil over

Idioms and Phrases

Erupt in anger, excitement, or other strong emotion. For example, The mere mention of a tax increase will make Kevin boil over . This phrase alludes to overflowing while boiling. [Second half of 1800s]

Example Sentences

“To prevent a boil-over of emotion, or in the effort to limit that, I am refraining from making comments on the issue at this time,” the sheriff said.

From New York Times

If a recipe calls for searing or bringing something up to a boil or strong simmer before reducing the heat, you may want to turn it down a little sooner to account for the residual heat, especially if you’re trying to avoid burning or a boil-over.

From Washington Post

Unjustified police violence and unaddressed systemic racism had already brought many Black Americans to the boil-over point — and Trump devoted himself to turning up the temperature.

From Washington Post

Even then, you’ll likely want to turn down the heat eventually, as the cast iron’s efficiency could lead to a boil-over.

From Seattle Times

Luke Thompson defied his advancing 38 years with a terrific defensive shift that helped Japan defeat Ireland for the first time, by a 19-12 margin, and kept the Irish scoreless for the last hour in this tournament’s biggest boil-over yet.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• aggravate
• annoy
• antagonize
• arouse
• displease
• embitter
• enrage
• exacerbate
• exasperate
• excite
• incense
• inflame
• infuriate
• irritate
• offend
• outrage
• provoke
• rankle
• rile