tantrum

noun

tan·​trum ˈtan-trəm How to pronounce tantrum (audio)
Synonyms of tantrumnext
: 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.
Sometimes moody and no stranger to tantrums, Tilson Thomas once stormed off the Hollywood Bowl stage to protest noise from a police helicopter — and won applause for the dramatic gesture. Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026 Behavioral and Emotional Problems Children with PWS may have frequent temper tantrums, difficulty with changes in routine, or strong emotional reactions. Health, 13 Apr. 2026 The actress and mom of two recently took to her Instagram Stories to share a series of videos highlighting a trend some parents are using to help soothe their toddlers’ tantrums. Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026 Parents are trying this new tactic to stop their kids' tantrums. Sam Woodward, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2026 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 1 May. 2026.

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

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