breakout

/ˈbreɪkˌaʊt/

Definitions

1. noun

an escape or sudden release from confinement or control.

“The prison inmates had a breakout, but were quickly recaptured by the authorities.”

2. noun

a sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease or a significant rise in a financial index.

“The city experienced a breakout of influenza cases during the winter months.”

3. noun

a sudden and often spectacular success or achievement.

“The new video game had a breakout, becoming the best-selling game of the year.”

4. verb

to escape or suddenly release from confinement or control.

“The prisoners broke out of the jail by digging a tunnel.”

5. verb

to suddenly become popular or successful.

“The new TV show broke out and became a huge hit.”

6. verb

to increase rapidly in number or amount.

“The company’s sales broke out, thanks to the effective marketing campaign.”

Synonyms

  • escape
  • escapee
  • release
  • spurt

Antonyms

  • capture
  • containment