1 riotous | Definition of riotous

riotous

adjective
ri·​ot·​ous | \ ˈrÄ«-ə-təs How to pronounce riotous (audio) \

Definition of riotous

1a : of the nature of a riot : turbulent
b : participating in riot
2 : abundant, exuberant the garden was riotous with flowers

Keep scrolling for more

Other Words from riotous

riotously adverb
riotousness noun

Examples of riotous in a Sentence

a riotous profusion of flowers his riotous mugging always has everyone in hysterics

Recent Examples on the Web

Jordan Donica, whose virile voice matched his stature, received riotous applause as Lancelot, the knight who loves Arthur’s queen, embodied by the hysterical and ultimately heartbreaking Solea Pfeiffer. Ian Malone, Vogue, "Camelot Ruled the Stage at Lincoln Center Theater’s Benefit Gala," 5 Mar. 2019 One of the more boisterous and riotous cricket arenas on these shores has proved a happy home for England in recent times. James Masters, CNN, "Australia vs. England: England ends 27-year wait to reach World Cup final," 11 July 2019 This very denial is what has set the stage for the riotous resurrection of white entitlement and scapegoat politics. KimberlĂ© Williams Crenshaw, The New Republic, "The Destructive Politics of White Amnesia," 6 Aug. 2019 As the song progresses, each member is seen in his own distinct setting, ranging from swimming pools to being surrounded by shooting targets, only to come together in a warehouse and showcase even more impactful moves during the riotous finale. Tamar Herman, Billboard, "Seventeen Have a 'Hit' On Their Hands With Dynamic New Single: Watch," 5 Aug. 2019 JIM WATSONGetty Images After a riotous debate that included hecklers, some serious finger-pointing, and legitimate policy explanations, Joe Biden was handling the pointed criticism of his record fairly well. Cady Drell, Marie Claire, "What Did Joe Biden Mean By “Joe 30330?”," 1 Aug. 2019 The ceremony was introduced in 2005 as a focal point for conservation and draws local dignitaries and visitors to see around 20 infants named, followed by riotous music and dancing. Mark Ellwood, CondĂ© Nast Traveler, "Best Places to Visit in September," 25 July 2019 The crowd lined the trees as the first really riotous dance party erupted in front of the Blue stage. Jessi Roti, chicagotribune.com, "Pitchfork Music Fest 2019: 14 things we loved from a sweaty day 1," 19 July 2019 The absurdly comedic plot includes the search for a shrub set to music with men in tights, uproarious song and dance numbers, and riotous nonsense. SFChronicle.com, "Monty Python’s SPAMALOT," 17 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'riotous.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

See More

First Known Use of riotous

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Keep scrolling for more

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for riotous

riotous

adjective

English Language Learners Definition of riotous

formal
of a group of people : behaving in a violent and uncontrolled way
: very exciting, fun, or full of energy
: existing or occurring in large amounts

riotous

adjective
ri·​ot·​ous | \ ˈrÄ«-ə-təs How to pronounce riotous (audio) \

Legal Definition of riotous

1 : of the nature of a riot riotous conduct
2 : participating in a riot a riotous assemblage

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on riotous

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for riotous

Spanish Central: Translation of riotous

Nglish: Translation of riotous for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of riotous for Arabic Speakers