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DictionaryrampageUncontrolled destructive activity
noun / verb

rampage

RAM-payj/ˈræmpeɪdʒ/

Violent, uncontrolled destructive activity.

The escaped bull goes on a rampage through the market.

A large escaped bull charges through an empty market stall, knocking over plain wooden crates and scattering intact cabbages.
Etymology
rampageScotsto rage or storm about

The Scots verb described raging or storming about; the noun turned that action into a fit of anger or excitement. The verb probably connects with an older word for rushing wildly, especially of beasts rearing up.

In context

Hello Future Me1:49
She goes on a rampage, killing who knows how many and swearing vengeance on this town who were cruel or did not care enough to help her.
How to Write a Tragic Villain

More examples

  • Vandals rampage through the park, smashing benches and trash cans.
  • The elephant's rampage leaves several fences flattened.
  • The mob rampaged through downtown, breaking windows and overturning cars.

Forms

rampage · rampages · rampaged · rampaging

Similar words

riot
Usually involves a crowd, while a rampage can involve one individual.
frenzy
Emphasizes wild excitement or agitation, not necessarily destructive behavior.