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.

As if the task was not challenging enough, authorities must now contend with mounting concerns over the outbreak of Ebola, centred on the Democratic Republic of Congo.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

This is the 17th Ebola outbreak to hit the DRC, a vast and unstable central African country of more than 100 million people.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

But the outbreak of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran has made Spain an attractive alternative compared to Middle Eastern holiday destination Dubai, and countries in the eastern Mediterranean, such as Turkey and Cyprus.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

The World Health Organization has declared an international health emergency over the outbreak.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

Her outbreak had terrified her, and for a time she made every effort to restore his sweet picture of her.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck

Vocabulary lists containing outbreak

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