Stampede

/stæmˈpiːd/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A sudden rush of a crowd of animals or people, often caused by fear.
The stampede of concertgoers towards the exit was chaotic and dangerous.
A situation in which a large number of people move in a sudden and overwhelming rush.
There was a stampede at the sale when the doors opened.
verb
To rush or surge in a stampede.
As soon as the doors opened, the crowd began to stampede into the arena.
To cause a stampede.
The loud noise from the fireworks caused the horses to stampede.

Etymology

The word 'stampede' comes from the Spanish verb 'stampidar,' meaning to stampede or to cause a stampede.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stampede of elephants
A large and unmanageable crowd, often chaotic in nature.
fear of stampede
A heightened anxiety in crowded situations that could lead to panic.

Related Words

panic
A sudden uncontrollable fear or anxiety.
crowd
A large number of people gathered together in a disorganized manner.
chaos
Complete disorder and confusion.

Slang Meanings

A wild rush or gathering of fans at an event.
The stampede at the front row during the concert was insane!
A situation where many people are frantically trying to get something.
There was a stampede for the last concert tickets.