tantrum

n. 1. A whim; an affected air. [ Colloq. and archaic ] Thackeray. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A display of ill-humor, especially a demonstration of rage or frustration by shouting or violent physical movements, such as the stamping of feet; called also temper tantrum. It is usually associated with children, but is sometimes seen in adults. [ PJC ]

3. [ fig. ] A display of anger expressed by irrationally striking out at innocent targets or inanimate objects; as, the governor was so insulted by the article, he threw a temper tantrum and cancelled the ceremony. [ PJC ]