WordHive Learning Dictionary

Burst

verb, noun

Burst means to break open suddenly or happen suddenly.

5 letters 1 syllable

What does Burst mean?

Burst means to break open suddenly or happen suddenly.

Dictionary definition

To break open suddenly, or a sudden short release of energy, sound, or activity.

Example sentences

Burst in a sentence

easy

The balloon began to burst.

medium

The crowd gave a burst of laughter.

hard

A sudden burst of wind pushed the leaves across the yard.

Writing practice

Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice burst in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.

Quick practice
⬡ Earn 5 Honey

Practice the meaning of Burst

Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.

Practice 1

What does burst mean?

Practice 2

Which word is closest to burst when something breaks open?

Practice 3

Which sentence uses burst correctly?

Pronunciation coach
⬡ Earn 5 Honey

Burst

Voice settings
Sounds like

BURST

Listen, then repeat the word.

Synonyms

Words like Burst

popUse when something breaks open with a quick sound.
explodeUse when something bursts with force.
Antonyms

Opposite words

sealUse when something is closed instead of breaking open.
slow releaseA gradual release instead of a sudden burst.
Synonym practice

Want to practice burst synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "We saw a bright flash in the sky," then compare close word choices. Practice burst synonyms.

Word family

Burst word family

Base word

burst

verb

bursts

Breaks open or happens suddenly.

verb

bursting

Breaking open or happening suddenly.

adjective

burst-open

Split or opened suddenly.

Related words
Student support

Understand Burst

Hint for students

Burst means to break open suddenly or happen suddenly.

Common mix-up

Do not use burst just because it sounds familiar. Make sure the sentence matches this meaning: Burst means to break open suddenly or happen suddenly.

Try it in class or at home

Read this model sentence: The crowd gave a burst of laughter. Clue words: crowd, laughter. Underline clue words that show honesty, directness, or hidden feelings. Now write one new sentence that shows burst without using the word burst. Ask: Does my sentence clearly show burst?

Teacher prompt

Ask students to explain this model sentence: "The crowd gave a burst of laughter." Why does burst fit better than seal?