tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm How to pronounce tantrum (audio)
: a fit of bad temper

Examples of tantrum in a Sentence

had a tantrum when he found his little sister using his model paints
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 28-year-old from Vineland, New Jersey, took to social media and threw a prejudiced tantrum aimed at the entire country of Mexico. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 These tantrums may involve kicking, screaming, and stomping. Wendy Wisner, Health, 30 Mar. 2025 What seems to have most set Trump off during his Oval Office tantrum was Zelenskyy’s suggestion that the U.S. might be sitting pretty now but would feel the impact of an emboldened and aggressive Russia later on. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 10 Mar. 2025 When conflict arises — a toddler might have a tearful tantrum, or an older kid may shout or lash out — a ‘democratic parent’ should be mindful of the fact that there is likely a root cause of the difficult behavior. Miranda Rake, Parents, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tantrum

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tantrum was in 1714

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tantrum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tantrum. Accessed 6 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

tantrum

noun
tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm How to pronounce tantrum (audio)
: a fit of bad temper

Medical Definition

tantrum

noun
tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm How to pronounce tantrum (audio)
: a fit of bad temper

More from Merriam-Webster on tantrum

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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