release

¹re·lease

verb \ri-ˈlēs\

re·leasedre·leas·ing

Definition of RELEASE

transitive verb

1

: to set free from restraint, confinement, or servitude <release hostages> <release pent-up emotions> <release the brakes>; also : to let go : dismiss <released from her job>

2

: to relieve from something that confines, burdens, or oppresses <was released from her promise>

3

: to give up in favor of another : relinquish <release a claim to property>

4

: to give permission for publication, performance, exhibition, or sale of; also : to make available to the public <the commission released its findings> <release a new movie>

intransitive verb

: to move from one's normal position (as in football or basketball) in order to assume another position or to perform a second assignment

— re·leas·able \-ˈlē-sə-bəl\ adjective

Examples of RELEASE

1. The hostages have been released.
2. The judge released the prisoner.
3. The lion was released from its cage.
4. There is a lot of controversy over whether or not wolves should be released into the park.
5. I released my son's hand, and he ran out onto the playground.
6. The factory faced serious fines for releasing dangerous chemicals into the river.
7. Heat is released into the atmosphere by cars.
8. During exercise, the body releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel better.
9. She started to cry, releasing all of her repressed emotion.
10. Exercise is a good way to release stress.

Origin of RELEASE

Middle English relesen, from Anglo-French relesser, from Latin relaxare to relax

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to RELEASE

Synonyms: loose, loosen, uncork, unleash, unlock, unloose, unloosen, let go

Antonyms: bridle, check, constrain, contain, control, curb, govern, hold, inhibit, regulate, rein (in), restrain, smother, tame

Related Words: discharge, emancipate, enfranchise, free, liberate, manumit, spring, unbind, uncage, unchain, unfetter, unmoor, unshackle; air, express, take out, vent

Near Antonyms: handcuff, manacle, shackle, trammel; bind, confine, enchain, fetter; halter, hamper

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