To expel or discharge forcibly and in large quantities, often referring to vomit or other liquids. To speak or express something rapidly and angrily or in an uncontrolled manner.
From Old English spīwan, related to Old Norse spýja and German speien, all derived from Proto-Germanic spīwaną meaning 'to spit' or 'to vomit.' The metaphorical use for forceful speech emerged in the 16th century.
Volcanoes 'spew' lava and ash, which is actually the word's most literal geological application of its original meaning. The word has maintained its visceral, unpleasant connotations across centuries, making it particularly effective for describing both physical ejection and verbal outbursts we find distasteful.
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