The word "spate" primarily means:
- A large number or amount of similar things happening suddenly and within a short period of time, often unpleasant events such as crimes or accidents (e.g., a spate of burglaries)
- It can also refer to a sudden flood or a heavy outpouring of water, such as a river being full and flowing strongly after heavy rain (a river in spate)
- Figuratively, it can mean a sudden rush or outpouring of something, like words or events
In summary, "spate" describes either a sudden large quantity of events or things occurring at once, especially negative ones, or a sudden strong flow of water.
