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sugar-rush

/ˈʃʊɡ.ə ˌrʌʃ/
IELTSAcademic
noun

A short period of extra energy or excitement after eating a lot of sugar. It often feels sudden and does not last long.

  • The kids had a sugar-rush after the party cake.
  • I feel a sugar-rush after two sodas.
  • The sugar-rush faded in about an hour.

Adinary Nuance

A sugar-rush is not the same as simple energy or alertness. It suggests a quick burst from sugar, often followed by a crash or tired feeling. Writers choose it when they want to show that the energy is temporary and caused by sweet food or drink.

In other languages

Vietnamese
Cơn hưng phấn vì đường
Spanish
Subidón de azúcar
Chinese
糖分兴奋
Japanese
砂糖のハイ
Korean
설탕 흥분

Etymology

This modern compound joins sugar and rush. It became common in everyday English in the late 20th century, especially in talk about children and sweets.

Common phrases

a sugar-rush from sweetsthe sugar-rush wears offget a sugar-rush

Synonyms

Related words

Frequently asked questions

Is sugar-rush the same as sugar high?
Yes, they are very close. Sugar-rush is a more informal phrase.
Is sugar-rush formal enough for academic writing?
Usually no. In academic writing, use terms like energy spike or blood sugar change.
Can I use sugar-rush for adults?
Yes. It can describe adults or children.
Does sugar-rush always sound negative?
Not always. It can sound playful, but it often hints at a crash later.