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uproar
/ˈʌp.rɔːr/
loud disturbance
The announcement of the new policy caused an uproar among the students.
The students loudly protested the new policy.
formal
a loud and confusing noise, especially one caused by a large group of people
The crowd erupted in uproar when the referee made a controversial call.
The crowd loudly protested the referee's decision.
There was uproar in the parliament over the proposed tax increase.
Parliament members loudly argued against the tax increase.
Often implies strong emotional reaction (anger, excitement, or shock) rather than just noise.
Collocations
cause an uproarto provoke a loud and angry reactionin uproarin a state of loud protest or disturbance
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'uproarious'
'Uproarious' is an adjective meaning 'very noisy and chaotic' (e.g., 'an uproarious party'), while 'uproar' is a noun.
Gold Rule
Use 'uproar' for collective reactions
Reserve 'uproar' for situations involving groups of people reacting strongly, not for individual outbursts.
Word Origin
Late 16th century: from the phrase 'up' (meaning 'upward' or 'aloft') + 'roar' (a loud noise). Originally referred to the noise of a crowd or tumult.
Usage Notes
Used for both literal noise (e.g., a crowd) and metaphorical disturbances (e.g., social or political turmoil). More formal than 'commotion' or 'racket'.
Word Breakdown
up
indicating intensity or upward motion
prefixroar
a loud, deep noise
rootEnglish Dictionary