Search results for 'riot':

riot noun 1 a loosely a noisy public disturbance or disorder, usually by a large group of people; b law, technical such a disturbance by three or more people; c as adj suitable for use in a riot • riot shields. 2 uncontrolled or wild revelry and feasting. 3 archaic unrestrained squandering or indulgence. 4 said especially of colour: a striking display. 5 colloq someone or something that is very amusing or entertaining, especially in a wild or boisterous way. 6 a very, usually boisterously, successful show or performance. verb (rioted, rioting) intrans 1 to take part in a riot. 2 to take part in boisterous revelry. rioter noun. rioting noun. run riot 1 to act, speak, etc in a wild or unrestrained way • The children ran riot. 2 said of plants, vegetation, etc: to grow profusely or in an uncontrolled way • The weeds were running riot.
ETYMOLOGY: 13c: from French riote a debate or quarrel.