Synonyms for

Riots

Verb / ˈraɪʌts / Another word for riots — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a violent disturbance of the peace by a crowd

Synonyms & similar words

roister wow debauch thighslapper publicviolence saturnalia sidesplitter scream bacchanal rioting orgy debauchery bacchanalia drunkenrevelry riot howler bellylaugh carouse disturbance uproar commotion turmoil disorder chaos anarchy rebellion insurrection mutiny uprising revolt protest demonstration strike march rally mob violence clash

Synonyms by register

Formal

uprising insurrection rebellion civil unrest

Informal

rampage melee brawl scuffle

Literary

tumult commotion uproar

Antonyms

peace calm order tranquility harmony quiet serenity

Common collocations

  • political riots
  • prison riots
  • race riots
  • food riots
  • anti-government riots
  • street riots
  • riot police
  • riot control

Word family

noun riot
verb riot
adjective riotous

Usage note

Riots typically refer to violent public disturbances. While 'riot' can be used informally for a chaotic situation, its primary connotation is serious civil disorder.

Example sentences

  1. The police were called to stop the riots in the street.
  2. The riots were caused by people who were angry about the new law.
  3. During the riots, many stores were looted and destroyed.
  4. The government declared a state of emergency to deal with the riots.
  5. The riots lasted for three days before the situation was brought under control.

Quotes

  • A riot is the language of the unheard. - Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Riots are the voices of the unheard. - George Floyd
  • Riots are the language of those who have no other means of making themselves heard. - Stokely Carmichael

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