a public act of violence by an unruly mob
"The sudden release of the news sparked a riot that left several buildings damaged and many people injured."
a joke that seems extremely funny
"The comedian's punchline was such a riot that everyone in the audience fell off their chairs laughing."
a wild gathering involving excessive drinking and promiscuity
"The bachelorette party turned into a riot as the guests spent all night dancing, drinking heavily, and making out on every available surface."
Wanton or unrestrained behavior; uproar; tumult.
"The sudden announcement sparked a riot of laughter that echoed through the entire hall."
In plain English: A riot is an angry crowd of people who act violently and break things together.
"The police had to intervene when the crowd turned into a riot after the game ended."
Usage: Use "riot" as a noun to describe chaotic public disorder, but reserve the verb form for active participation in such events rather than general noisy behavior. In formal writing, prefer synonyms like "tumult" or "uproar" when referring specifically to the state of chaos without implying criminal intent.
take part in a riot; disturb the public peace by engaging in a riot
"Students were rioting everywhere in 1968"
To create or take part in a riot; to raise an uproar or sedition.
"The angry crowd began to riot when they heard the news of the unjust verdict."
In plain English: To riot means to act wildly and violently, usually as part of an angry crowd.
"The crowd began to riot after they heard that their team had lost the championship game."
The word "riot" entered English in the Middle Ages with a meaning of debauched living or dissipation, derived from Old French terms for debate and quarreling. Its ultimate origin may trace back to Latin roots associated with roaring sounds, though its early usage focused on disorderly conduct rather than violence.