riot

/ˈɹaɪ.ət/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: riots · rioting · rioted

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A tumultuous disturbance of the public peace by a large group of people, often involving violence or damage to property.

Noun

Examples

The protests began peacefully but turned into riots after several days.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A wide and unconstrained variety.

Noun

Examples

In summer this flower garden is a riot of colour.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To create or take part in a riot; to raise an uproar or sedition.

Verb

Examples

The nuclear protesters rioted outside the military base.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To cause to riot; to throw into a tumult.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “riot” mean?

A tumultuous disturbance of the public peace by a large group of people, often involving violence or damage to property.

Is “riot” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.