Outbreak

Definition

Outbreak refers to a sudden occurrence or increase of something, often of an illness or a violent event.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaʊtˌbreɪk/
• Respelling: OUT-break (with "OUT" as in "out," and "break" as in "break")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaʊtˌbreɪk/
• Respelling: OUT-break (similar to American English, with "OUT" as in "out," and "break" as in "break")

In both dialects, "outbreak" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "OUT." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "OUT-break."

Etymology

The term "outbreak" is a combination of two words: "out", which signifies a movement away or beyond a boundary, and "break", which indicates a sudden or violent occurrence or rupture. Together, they portray the idea of a sudden and often unexpected event or surge.

Derivatives

• Outbreaking (verb form, the act of breaking out)
• Outbreak's (possessive form)
• Unbroken (adjective form denoting something not broken or not ruptured)
• Breakout (related noun, indicating a forceful escape or surge)

Synonyms

• Eruption
• Onset
• Flare-up

Antonyms

• Ending
• Decline
• Remission

Usage

"Outbreak" is frequently used in the context of illnesses, especially to describe the sudden emergence of diseases.

• An outbreak of measles in the city has prompted health officials to launch an immunization campaign.
• Civil unrest led to an outbreak of violence in the streets.

Related Terms

• Epidemic
• Pandemic
• Surge
• Spread
• Incidence

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Sudden Occurrence or Increase: The sudden start or rise of something, especially of an unwanted or unpleasant event or illness.‍
• Example: The country is preparing for a possible outbreak of influenza.

• A Violent or Hostile Situation: A sudden emergence of hostilities or conflict.‍
• Example: The police were called in after an outbreak of rioting.

• A Rapid Spread: A quick expansion or proliferation of something.‍
• Example: There was an outbreak of laughter when the comedian took the stage.