tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm 

: a fit of bad temper

Synonyms

• blowup
• explosion
• fireworks
• fit
• hissy [chiefly Southern & southern Midland]
• hissy fit
• huff
• scene

Examples of tantrum in a Sentence

had a tantrum when he found his little sister using his model paints

Recent Examples on the Web

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

This entire legislative session appears to be a temper tantrum in response to the election of President Donald J. Trump. —Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 13 Mar. 2025

Yesterday’s market tantrum in the U.S. and China’s subsequent gains overnight, though Hong Kong was nearly flat overall, highlight the diversification benefits of owning China. —Brendan Ahern, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025

The couple places an order for the kids the moment the server arrives and requests the check when their own food comes in case a tantrum starts brewing. —Maggie Hennessy, Bon Appétit, 6 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing tantrum

• have/throw/pitch a tantrum

Rhymes for tantrum

• antrum

Kids Definition

tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm 

: a fit of bad temper

Medical Definition

tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm 

: a fit of bad temper