(~s)
1.
An ~ of an emotion, especially anger, is a sudden strong expression of that emotion.
...a spontaneous ~ of cheers and applause...
There has been another angry ~ against the new local tax introduced today.
N-COUNT: usu with supp, oft N of n
2.
An ~ of violent activity is a sudden period of this activity.
Five people were reported killed today in a fresh ~ of violence.
...this first great ~ of nationalist student protest.
= eruption
N-COUNT: usu N of n