irrupt

[ ih-ruhpt ]

verb (used without object)

1. to break or burst in suddenly.
2. to manifest violent activity or emotion, as a group of persons.
3. (of animals) to increase suddenly in numbers through a lessening of the number of deaths.

irrupt

/ ɪˈrʌpt /

verb

1. to enter forcibly or suddenly
2. (of a plant or animal population) to enter a region suddenly and in very large numbers
3. (of a population) to increase suddenly and greatly

Derived Forms

• irˈruption, noun

Other Words From

• unir·rupted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of irrupt¹

1850–55; < Latin irruptus; irruption

Word History and Origins

Origin of irrupt¹

C19: from Latin irrumpere to rush into, invade, from rumpere to break, burst

Example Sentences

The vociferations of the assailants, who irrupted into the house, reached the ears of the Abbot, the Marchioness and Mademoiselle Plouernel.

From Project Gutenberg

The impulse thus given, uninterruptedly propagated itself to the primitive country of the Fins, on the banks of the Ural, whence irrupted a torrent of Huns, Avars, Chasars, and divers mixtures of Asiatic races.

From Project Gutenberg

It seemed as if the very bowels of the earth had shaken themselves and irrupted.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, the Vedic Aryans appear in history at just the period when they are on the move southwards into India; but they are no irrupting host.

From Project Gutenberg

Into these not unpleasant musings Mr. Jason Vandervelde irrupted himself, with the astounding request that she come with him now, immediately, to a hospital where a girl unknown to her prayed to see her.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• brim
• bubble over
• cascade
• deluge
• drain
• drown
• engulf
• gush
• inundate
• leak
• overrun
• pour
• run over
• soak
• spill
• spill over
• submerge
• swamp