Meaning & Definition of word "Rant"

Rant

/rænt/

noun:

  • 1. a long, passionate, and loud speech or piece of writing, often one that expresses strong opinions about something.
    • Example: His rant against the government's policies went viral on social media.
  • 2. a prolonged speech or piece of writing in which someone expresses strong opinions.
    • Example: I couldn't help but laugh at her rant about the local traffic issues.

verb:

  • 1. to speak or shout in a loud, wild, or passionate manner, often about something trivial or unimportant.
    • Example: He began to rant about the problems with the new software, ignoring the fact that it was working fine for most users.
  • 2. to talk in a noisy and excited manner.
    • Example: During the meeting, she started to rant about the budget cuts that would affect her department.

Etymology

Origin unknown; possibly from the Scottish 'rant', meaning to talk extravagantly or to boast.

Common Phrases and Expressions

go on a rant:

To speak or write in a loud, passionate, or angry manner.

rant and rave:

To complain or criticize in a loud or agitated way.

a rant against something:

An angry or passionate speech or piece of writing expressing opposition.

Related Words

tirade:

A long, angry speech of criticism or accusation.

diatribe:

A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something.

harangue:

A lengthy and aggressive speech.

Slang Meanings of rant

Meaning: Going off

Example Sentence: He was really going off about the new changes at work.

Meaning: Spouting off

Example Sentence: She started spouting off about her opinions on politics.