# rioting

/ˈɹaɪətɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈaɪətɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rioting
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a situation where a large group of people behaves in a violent and uncontrolled way in public. It often involves fighting with police or damaging buildings.

For teachers: the act of participating in a violent public disturbance by a large group of people. Often involves civil disorder, property damage, and clashes with law enforcement.

## Examples

- The city was quiet after three days of rioting.
- The government declared a state of emergency to stop the rioting that broke out after the controversial election results.
- Sociologists often distinguish between spontaneous rioting sparked by a specific grievance and more organized forms of civil unrest that target systemic political structures.

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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.