What does spurting mean?
“Spurting” means moving, flowing, or developing with a sudden burst of energy or force. It is especially vivid when describing water or another liquid gushing suddenly from a narrow opening, steam escaping forcefully, or a person or vehicle accelerating sharply. The word can also describe a rapid but temporary increase in activity or growth, as in a project that began spurting forward after delays. Its implication is usually that the movement is brief, energetic, and noticeable rather than steady and controlled. “Spurt” forms the base of the word, while “spurting” functions as its present participle and can describe either an action in progress or a characteristic manner of movement.
verbTo gush or flow out suddenly and forcefully, as liquid from a container or gas from a pipe. It can also mean to move or develop with a sudden burst of energy.
- To flow or be expelled suddenly and forcefully.
- To move or act with a sudden burst of energy or speed.
- To grow or develop suddenly for a short period.
"Water was spurting from the cracked pipe."
"Steam was spurting from the vents as the train pulled into the station."
"After a quiet start, the young team began spurting into life."
A spurt is the moment a restrained stream suddenly finds its force: think of water forcing through a narrow opening.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spurting come from?
“Spurting” is derived from the English verb “spurt,” which is historically recorded in the 16th century. The exact origin of “spurt” is uncertain, so its relationship to older forms should not be stated more specifically than the available evidence allows. Modern usage developed the familiar sense of a sudden forceful flow or burst of movement, with the activity sense arising by extension.
Related word forms
How spurting is actually used
The word is commonly used for liquids, gases, movement, or brief bursts of activity and growth. It is generally more vivid than “flowing” or “moving,” because it emphasizes suddenness and force.
Easily confused with spurting
“Spurt” is the base verb, while “spurting” describes an action or process happening in bursts.
“Spur” can mean to stimulate or provoke activity, whereas “spurting” usually describes a sudden forceful flow or burst of movement.