# popping

/ˈpɑpɪŋ/ (US) · /pˈɒpɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/popping
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a sharp sound

noun · CEFR B2

a short, sharp sound like a small explosion.

For teachers: the production of a sudden, sharp, explosive sound.

- We heard a strange popping sound coming from the old radiator.
- The rhythmic popping of the logs in the fireplace provided a comforting soundtrack to the quiet winter evening.

### 3. bursting or appearing

verb · CEFR B1

the act of bursting, appearing suddenly, or going somewhere quickly.

For teachers: the present participle of 'pop', used to describe sudden appearance, bursting, or rapid movement.

- New shops are popping up all over the city center lately.
- The bubbles were popping as soon as they reached the surface of the boiling water, releasing small clouds of steam into the air.

## Examples

- The popping of the corn filled the kitchen with a delicious smell.
- We sat by the campfire, listening to the rhythmic popping of the dry wood as it burned.
- The distant popping of fireworks signaled the start of the festival, echoing through the valley and drawing the villagers toward the central square.

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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.