noun
tantrum
TAN-trum/ˈtæntrəm/
An uncontrolled outburst of anger or frustration.
The young man throws a tantrum during the board game while his opponent remains composed.
Etymology
Tantrum is recorded as a colloquial word for a “burst of ill humor,” already close to its present meaning. Its unknown origin prevents a supported explanation through older roots.
In context
for those of you who have kids I think this is very familiar. uh is when he's in a tantrum mode when I ask when I ask him to do something and he doesn't want to do it.
More examples
- He had a temper tantrum over a canceled meeting.
- Her tantrums often involve screaming and kicking.
- She stays calm until her son's tantrum passes.
Forms
tantrum · tantrums
Similar words
- outburst
- Can express any strong emotion, not just anger or frustration.
- fit
- Can describe a sudden spell of laughter, coughing, or anger.