boil over

verb

boiled over; boiling over; boils over

intransitive verb

1
: to overflow while boiling
2
: to become so incensed as to lose one's temper
boilover noun

Examples of boil over in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Diffusing situations While managers can be proactive in keeping employees focused on the job at hand, and creating a culture of civility and respect, there are times when political differences may nonetheless boil over. Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2024 Bring to a boil over medium-high; reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld, about 30 minutes. Liv Dansky, Southern Living, 11 Oct. 2024 Boil water: Add 1-2 inches of water to the same medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Darcy Lenz, Southern Living, 9 Oct. 2024 But Biden’s frustration with Netanyahu boiled over as the war continued to escalate. Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for boil over 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of boil over was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near boil over

Cite this Entry

“Boil over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boil%20over. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

boil over

verb
1
: to overflow while boiling
2
: to become so angry as to lose one's temper

More from Merriam-Webster on boil over

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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