let out

let out  {v.}

1a. To allow to go out or escape.

The guard let the prisoners out of jail to work in the garden.

Mother won't let us out when it rains.

Compare: LET LOOSE.

1b.  {informal}

To make (a sound) come out of the mouth; utter.

A bee stung Charles. He let out a yell and ran home.

Father told Betty to sit still and not let out a peep during church.

2. To allow to be known; tell.

I'll never tell you another secret if you let this one out.

Compare: LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG.

3. To make larger (as clothing) or looser; allow to slip out (as a rope).

Mary's mother had to let out her dress because Mary is growing so tall.

Father hooked a big fish on his line. He had to let the line out so the fish wouldn't break it.

Compare: PIECE OUT. Contrast: TAKE IN.

4.  {informal}

To allow to move at higher speed.

The rider let out his horse to try to beat the horse ahead of him.

5.  {informal}

To free from blame, responsibility, or duty. — Often used with "of".

Last time I let you out of it when you were late. I'll have to punish you this time.

Frank has shoveled the snow from the sidewalk. That lets me out.

Compare: LET GO, LET OFF.

6.  {informal}

To discharge from a job; fire.

The shop closed down and all the men were let out.

7.  {informal}

To dismiss or be dismissed.

The coach let us out from practice at 3 o'clock.