The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

tantrum

IPA:

Dictionary definition of tantrum

An intense and often uncontrolled outburst of anger, frustration, or emotional distress, typically exhibited by children but can also occur in adults.
"The child's tantrum in the grocery store drew the attention of other shoppers."

Detailed meaning of tantrum

During a tantrum, an individual may display erratic behaviors such as screaming, crying, kicking, or throwing objects. Tantrums are often triggered by feelings of being overwhelmed, unable to communicate effectively, or not getting their desired outcome. They are a manifestation of emotional turmoil and can be challenging for both the person experiencing the tantrum and those around them. Tantrums are commonly associated with young children who have limited emotional regulation skills, but they can occur in people of any age. It is important to provide support, understanding, and guidance to individuals experiencing tantrums, helping them navigate and manage their emotions in a healthy and constructive manner.

Example sentences containing tantrum

1. The toddler threw a tantrum when his ice cream fell on the ground.
2. The exhausted parent tried to calm the tantrum by offering a favorite toy.
3. The teacher dealt with a student's tantrum by providing a quiet space for them to calm down.
4. It was challenging to ignore the tantrum, but the parent knew it was the best approach.
5. The actress had a tantrum backstage when her costume tore before the performance.
6. The tantrum subsided once the child received the desired toy.

History and etymology of tantrum

The noun 'tantrum' has its etymological roots in the word 'tanter,' which was a dialectal term in English used in the 18th century to describe an uproar or noisy commotion. This word was later modified to 'tantrum' and came to represent an intense and often uncontrolled outburst of anger, frustration, or emotional distress, typically exhibited by children but also observed in adults. The term 'tantrum' reflects the tumultuous and disruptive nature of such emotional outbursts, regardless of age, and underscores the sometimes overwhelming intensity of human emotions when they reach a boiling point.

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Further usage examples of tantrum

1. The toddler's tantrum escalated, resulting in a time-out for misbehavior.
2. The teenager's tantrum included slamming doors and shouting angrily.
3. The exhausted mother felt emotionally drained after dealing with her child's tantrum.
4. The manager dealt with an employee's tantrum by addressing their concerns privately.
5. The toddler's tantrum was a result of fatigue and overstimulation.
6. The toddler threw a tantrum in the grocery store aisle.
7. His tantrum at the office meeting was embarrassing.
8. Dealing with a child's tantrum can be challenging.
9. She had a tantrum when her computer crashed.
10. The coach's tantrum on the sidelines was unprofessional.
11. His tantrum over a lost game was quite dramatic.
12. A public tantrum can be quite embarrassing for parents.
13. The child's tantrum subsided after a comforting hug.
14. The actor's tantrum on set disrupted the filming.
15. Dealing with a toddler's tantrum is a parenting challenge.
16. Her tantrum at the restaurant drew disapproving glances.
17. The executive's tantrum in the boardroom was legendary.
18. The therapist helped the child cope with tantrums.
19. He had a tantrum when he couldn't find his keys.
20. The teacher handled the student's tantrum with patience.
21. A tantrum in the middle of the store is every parent's nightmare.
22. His tantrum during the game led to his ejection.
23. The flight attendant calmed the child's tantrum on the plane.
24. She had a tantrum when her phone battery died.
25. The toddler's tantrum was a result of exhaustion.