Rampant

Rampant describes something that is widespread, unchecked, and flourishing, often in a destructive or uncontrolled way. It signifies a situation where something undesirable, such as disease, crime, or a negative emotion, is prevalent and spreading rapidly without significant restraint or control. The term often implies a sense of urgency or a need for immediate action to address the problem.

Rampant meaning with examples

• Following the severe storms, rumors of looting and price gouging ran rampant through the affected neighborhoods, causing widespread anxiety and distrust among the already vulnerable residents. Local authorities struggled to maintain order.
• The internet in the early 2000s saw rampant piracy of music and movies, severely impacting the entertainment industry. Copyright laws proved difficult to enforce against the numerous illegal downloads, challenging businesses across the globe.
• During the political campaign, misinformation was rampant across social media platforms. False narratives and fabricated stories, disseminated by both sides, confused the electorate and made it difficult to discern the truth.
• As the flu season progressed, the virus quickly became rampant in the community. Schools, hospitals, and workplaces were all affected as cases of the illness multiplied exponentially, leading to significant disruption and a shortage of beds.