Openbarsten

Openbarsten is a Dutch verb meaning to burst open or erupt suddenly. It describes a rapid, forceful opening of something, whether caused by pressure, impact, or external force, as well as a sudden emergence of a reaction or disclosure. The term is used in everyday language and appears in journalism and literature, where it conveys immediacy and dramatic effect.

In literal use, openbarsten commonly refers to objects that physically give way, for example: "De doos barst open," or "De deur barst open." It can also describe a surface cracking or a barrier giving way under pressure. In figurative usage, the verb describes abrupt developments or revelations, such as "de spanning barst open" or "de onthullingen barsten open," signaling a burst of emotion, information, or conflict.

Etymologically, openbarsten is a compound formed from open and barsten (to burst). It functions as a separable or inseparable verb in Dutch syntax depending on the sentence structure. In many contexts it is used in its simplest form without division: "de doos barst open," "de doos barstte open." The term is widely understood in Dutch, though in technical contexts speakers may opt for more precise terms such as rupture, breach, or fracture.

Related terms include barsten (cracks) and other compound verbs with open- prefixes that indicate opening actions. The expression captures both the physical and metaphorical sense of sudden opening.