surge
This term evokes a sense of overwhelming force and rapid acceleration. Whether describing a physical wave of water, a crowd of people, or a spike in electrical voltage, the word implies a sudden, often uncontrollable burst of energy that disrupts a previous state of stability.
When applied to emotions or statistics, it suggests a peak that is sharp and temporary rather than a gradual climb. It carries a more aggressive and volatile connotation than words like increase or rise, emphasizing the speed and power of the movement.
Meanings
A sudden large increase in amount, number, or intensity of something.
The city experienced a surge in violent crime over the summer.
A sudden and powerful forward or upward movement, especially by a crowd of people or a body of water.
A surge of protesters pushed against the police line.
A sudden strong feeling of emotion.
She felt a surge of pride as her daughter walked across the stage.
A sudden, temporary increase in voltage or current in an electrical circuit.
A power surge caused by the lightning strike fried the computer motherboard.
Examples
The city experienced a surge in violent crime over the summer.
A surge of protesters pushed against the police line.
She felt a surge of pride as her daughter walked across the stage.
A power surge caused by the lightning strike fried the computer motherboard.
Oil prices surged following the announcement of new trade sanctions.
The crowd surged forward when the gates finally opened.
Phrasal Verbs
surge ahead
to move forward quickly or gain a sudden advantage over others
The runner surged ahead of the pack in the final lap of the race.
surge forward
to move suddenly and powerfully in a forward direction
The crowd surged forward as soon as the concert doors opened.
surge up
to rise rapidly in level or intensity
The water levels surged up after the heavy rainfall, flooding the basement.