eruption

[ ih-ruhp-shuhn ]

noun

1. an issuing forth suddenly and violently; outburst; outbreak.
2. Geology. the ejection of molten rock, steam, etc., as from a volcano or geyser.
3. something that is erupted or ejected, as molten rock, volcanic ash, or steam.
4. Pathology.
   1. the breaking out of a rash or the like.
   2. a rash or exanthem.

eruption

/ ĭ-rŭp′shən /

1. The release of gas, ash, molten materials, or hot water into the atmosphere or onto the Earth's surface from a volcano or other opening in the Earth's surface.

Other Words From

• e·ruption·al adjective
• none·ruption noun
• pree·ruption noun
• ree·ruption noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of eruption¹

1375–1425; late Middle English < Latin ēruptiōn- (stem of ēruptiō ). See erupt, -ion

Example Sentences

On Earth, volcanic eruptions are mostly steam, due to our planet's water-rich interior.

From Science Daily

They wondered whether dinos enjoyed unique anatomical advantages or their rivals were especially weakened by climate change or catastrophic volcanic eruptions.

From Science Magazine

Their analysis also revealed a "surprisingly young" eruption occurred some 2.83 billion years ago, something which has not been found on the near side of the Moon.

From BBC

Pompeii, the Roman city buried in an eruption from nearby Mount Vesuvius in AD79, is one of the best-preserved Roman sites anywhere in the world.

From BBC

According to local officials, the eruption has affected seven villages.

From BBC

Related Words

• blast
• breakout
• burst
• explosion
• flare-up
• outbreak
• outburst