Outrage Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈaʊtrɪdʒ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A strong feeling of anger, shock, or resentment, often in response to an injustice, cruelty, or unacceptable behavior.

Examples

• The community expressed outrage over the government’s decision to cut funding for education.
• Her outrage was palpable when she saw the destruction caused by the hurricane.

Synonyms

• Indignation
• Rage
• Fury

Antonyms

• Apathy
• Indifference

Additional Information

Outrage can be a powerful motivator for social change, as it often drives individuals and groups to take action against injustice or inequality. It can also be a personal emotion, experienced in response to a personal affront or betrayal. Outrage can be expressed through various forms of protest, activism, or creative expression.

In some cases, outrage can be used to manipulate public opinion or garner attention, which can lead to negative consequences. It is essential to understand the underlying causes of outrage and to channel it into constructive and positive actions.

Etymology

The word “outrage” comes from the Old French “outrager,” meaning “to transgress” or “to exceed bounds.” It has its roots in the Latin “ultra,” meaning “beyond,” and “agere,” meaning “to drive” or “to act.”

Usage Notes

Outrage can be used in various contexts, including politics, social justice, and personal relationships. It is often used to express strong emotions or to criticize unacceptable behavior.

Cultural References

Outrage has been a central theme in many literary and artistic works, such as plays, novels, and films. It has also been a driving force behind social and political movements throughout history.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• moral outrage
• public outrage
• outrageous behavior

Related Words or Phrases

• Indignation
• Uproar
• Fury

Collocations

• express outrage
• feel outrage
• cause outrage

Frequency of Use

Outrage is a relatively common word in modern language, often used in news, social media, and everyday conversation.