erupt

Erupt is a verb meaning to burst forth suddenly and forcefully from within, or to release energy abruptly. It can be used intransitively (the volcano erupted) or transitively (lava erupted from the vent). The subject is often nature, but it can describe human emotions, crowds, or other reactions. The noun form eruption is common for the event; eruption can also refer to a rash or skin lesions (the eruption on the skin). Etymology traces to Latin erumpere, from e- “out” + rumpere “to break.” The English verb dates to the 14th century.

Geology: In volcanology, an eruption is the process by which magma or ground materials are expelled from a volcanic vent. Eruptions vary widely: effusive eruptions produce lava flows; explosive eruptions eject ash clouds, pumice, volcanic bombs, and gases. Volcanic hazards include ash fall, pyroclastic flows, and lava flows; eruptions can affect climate by injecting aerosols into the stratosphere. The style and magnitude depend on magma viscosity, gas content, and tectonic setting.

Other usages: In everyday language, phrases such as “erupt into laughter” or “erupt in anger” describe sudden displays of emotion. The phrase “skin eruption” describes a rash or vesicular outbreak on the surface of the body. The term is widely used across science, medicine, and everyday speech.