Riot
/ˈraɪət/
Definitions
3 meaningsA violent public disturbance or act of violence involving a group of people, typically in response to a perceived injustice or a provocation.
/ˈraɪət/
A violent disturbance of the peace.
The protestors were peaceful until the police used tear gas, which then triggered a riot.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big group of people getting really angry and causing a lot of trouble in the streets. Maybe they're upset about something, so they start throwing things and making a big mess. That's a riot!
👶 For kids: When a bunch of people are very angry and make a big mess and cause trouble.
More Examples
The government deployed the army to quell the riots that broke out in the capital.
The city suffered extensive damage during the week-long riot.
How It's Used
"The city erupted in riots after the controversial election results."
"Reports came in of widespread looting and rioting."
To engage in a riot; to take part in a violent public disturbance.
/ˈraɪət/
To take part in a violent public disturbance.
The fans rioted after their team lost the game.
💡 Simply: When a lot of people get together and cause a big, angry disturbance, like throwing things or fighting. They are rioting.
👶 For kids: To be part of a group of people that are very angry and make a mess and cause trouble.
More Examples
The prisoners rioted in protest against the prison conditions.
The police were trying to control the crowds who were rioting in the streets.
How It's Used
"The crowds rioted after the soccer team lost the championship game."
"Several individuals were arrested for rioting."
A large and confusing multitude or display; a profusion.
/ˈraɪət/
A wild or uncontrolled display of something.
The market displayed a riot of smells and sounds.
💡 Simply: Like when you see a bunch of things all mixed together in a wild and exciting way, like a garden full of colorful flowers.
👶 For kids: A big, exciting mix of things all together!
More Examples
The spring garden was a riot of vibrant colors.
The composer created a riot of sounds and effects in the symphony.
How It's Used
"There was a riot of color in the garden."
"The artist's canvas showed a riot of texture and form."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
riot act
A stern warning or reprimand, usually given by someone in authority.
"The teacher gave the class the riot act after they misbehaved."
From Middle English *riote*, from Old French *riote* ('quarrel, brawl'), of uncertain origin, possibly related to Old French *rïer* ('to shout') or a Germanic source.
The word 'riot' has been used since the 13th century to describe violent disturbances. The Riot Act, passed in England in 1714, further codified the term and its legal implications.
Memory tip
Think of 'riot' as a loud, destructive 'outburst'.
Word Origin
"quarrel, brawl"