spree

¹

[spree]

noun

1. a lively frolic or outing.

2. a bout or spell of drinking to intoxication; binge; carousal.

3. a period, spell, or bout of indulgence, as of a particular wish, craving, or whim.

   an eating spree; a spending spree.

4. a period or outburst of extreme activity.

   the team’s scoring spree;

   no motive for his killing spree.

Spree

²

[shprey]

noun

1. a river in E Germany, flowing N through Berlin to the Havel River. 220 miles (354 km) long.

spree

/ spriː /

noun

1. a session of considerable overindulgence, esp in drinking, squandering money, etc

2. a romp

Word History and Origins

Origin of spree¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of spree¹

C19: perhaps changed from Scottish spreath plundered cattle, ultimately from Latin praeda booty

Example Sentences

Liverpool's reaction to that was to embark on the biggest summer spending spree in European football history - £415m spent on recruiting a stellar collection of talent.

From BBC

When asked about the Border Patrol hiring spree, Elliston stressed that ICE applicants will not get firm job offers until they’ve cleared a background check.

From Los Angeles Times

That spending spree — along with new big-name studio hires — has ignited hope and enthusiasm among Hollywood’s creatives, who have weathered the industry’s recent downturns, consolidation and Paramount’s own stingy ways.

From Los Angeles Times

After the murders, Menendez said, the spending sprees between he and his brother, including buying a Rolex, were an “incredibly callous act.”

From Los Angeles Times

This is a team that won the title at a 10-point canter last term and has been strengthened by a remarkable summer spending spree.

From BBC

Related Words

• binge 
• celebration 
• orgy 
• rampage