[erupt] vb [L eruptus, pp. of erumpere to burst forth, fr. e- + rumpere to break--more at reave] vi (1657) 1 a (1): to burst from limits or restraint (2) of a tooth: to emerge through the gum b: to force out or release suddenly and often violently something (as lava or steam) that is pent up c: to become active or violent esp. suddenly
2: to break out with or as if with a skin eruption ~ vt: to force out or release usu. suddenly and violently -- erupt.ible adj -- erup.tive adj -- erup.tive.ly adv