put off

put off  {v.}

1.  {informal}

To cause confusion in; embarrass; displease.

I was rather put off by the shamelessness of his proposal.

The man's slovenliness put me off.

2. To wait and have (something) at a later time; postpone.

They put off the picnic because of the rain.

3. To make (someone) wait; turn aside.

When he asked her to name a day for their wedding, she put him off.

When the bill collector called, Mrs. Smith managed to put him off.

4. To draw away the attention; turn aside; distract.

Little Jeannie began to tell the guests some family secrets, but Father was able to put her off.

5. To move out to sea; leave shore.

They put off in small boats to meet the coming ship.

Syn.: PUT OUT.