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Added 8 October 2026

riot

/ˈɹaɪ.ət/ noun

Latin root: rugio Wiktionary

noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about riot at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

A tumultuous disturbance of the public peace by a large group of people, often involving violence or damage to property.
The protests began peacefully but turned into riots after several days.
A wide and unconstrained variety.
In summer this flower garden is a riot of colour.
A humorous or entertaining event or person.

verb

To create or take part in a riot; to raise an uproar or sedition.
The nuclear protesters rioted outside the military base.
To act in an unrestrained or wanton manner; to indulge in excess of feasting, luxury, etc.
To cause to riot; to throw into a tumult.

Origin

From Middle English riot (“debauched living, dissipation”), from Old French riote (“debate”), from rioter (“to quarrel”), perhaps related to riboter or from Latin rugio (“to roar”). Compare French riotte and Occitan riòta.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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