Spurted

Spurted is the past tense of the verb spurt, which means to eject or burst forth in a short, forceful stream, or to move forward suddenly in a brief burst of speed. The related noun spurt refers to the actual sudden flow or surge.

In literal contexts, spurted describes liquids or other substances that are expelled in a quick, sometimes high-velocity manner. Examples include water spouting from a hose, blood spouting from a wound, ink or paint being expelled from a pen or printer, or plant sap and other fluids forced out by damage or pressure. Spurted can also describe gases or other materials released from containers or mechanisms under pressure.

Figuratively, spurted is used to convey a rapid, short-lived burst of activity or progress. For instance, an athlete may spurt ahead to gain a temporary lead, or a company might experience a spurt of sales. Phrases like “a spurt of energy” or “a late spurt” are common in sports and general descriptions, signaling a brief surge rather than sustained effort.

Etymology and usage notes: the exact origin of spurt is uncertain, but the form has been part of English since the early modern period. It is closely related in sense to spout, spray, or surge, and carries a connotation of suddenness and force. In writing, spurted tends to convey vivid, concrete imagery and is less suitable for describing gradual or continuous processes.