# erupt in

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/erupt-in
Updated: 2026-07-27

## Definition

to suddenly start a loud or violent activity, such as shouting, laughing, or fighting. You use this when a situation or a group of people suddenly changes from calm to noisy or aggressive.

For teachers: to burst forth suddenly into a state of intense activity, noise, or emotion. Typically used with nouns representing collective human behaviour or states of conflict.

## Examples

- The crowd erupted in cheers when the team scored.
- The tense meeting erupted in shouting after the manager announced the sudden budget cuts.
- Following the controversial referee decision, the stadium erupted in a cacophony of boos and whistles that lasted for several minutes.

## Usage notes

- Always takes a noun phrase as an object, typically describing a sound or an emotional reaction.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.