Burst Definition

burst
noun
  1. the act of exploding or bursting; "the explosion of the firecrackers awoke the children"; "the burst of an atom bomb creates enormous radiation aloft"
  2. rapid simultaneous discharge of firearms; "our fusillade from the left flank caught them by surprise"
  3. a sudden flurry of activity (often for no obvious reason); "a burst of applause"; "a fit of housecleaning"
  4. a sudden intense happening; "an outburst of heavy rain"; "a burst of lightning"
verb
  1. come open suddenly and violently, as if from internal pressure; "The bubble burst"
  2. force out or release suddenly and often violently something pent up; "break into tears"; "erupt in anger"
  3. burst outward, usually with noise; "The champagne bottle exploded"
  4. move suddenly, energetically, or violently; "He burst out of the house into the cool night"
  5. be in a state of movement or action; "The room abounded with screaming children"; "The garden bristled with toddlers"
  6. emerge suddenly; "The sun burst into view"
  7. cause to burst; "The ice broke the pipe"
  8. break open or apart suddenly and forcefully; "The dam burst"

"Burst" in song lyrics

See how burst is used in real songs:

  • "Mercury rise and the thermometer burst"
    1.4.0. Productions f/ Cheesey Rat, Crunch Lo, Lighter Shade — God Twist
  • "Bone of the Gers, your bone whistle break when I burst"
    1.4.0. Productions f/ Crunch Lo, Shawn Wigs — One on One
  • "I'm 'a drag my sneakers through the dirt like alligator bellies 'til the cloud burst"
    Aesop Rock — Garbage

Usage tips for "burst"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "burst" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for burst to find words that pair well.

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