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.
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.
I'll meet you after school lets out.

Categories: informal time verb