unleash

un·leash

verb \-ˈlēsh\

: to allow or cause (something very powerful) to happen suddenly

: to remove a leash from (an animal) so that it can freely run, attack someone, etc.

Full Definition of UNLEASH

transitive verb

1

:  to free from or as if from a leash :  let loose <unleash the dogs> <unleashing his anger>

2

:  to throw, shoot, or set in motion forcefully <unleashed a superb shot … to earn his side a point — New York Times>

Examples of UNLEASH

1. The storm unleashed its fury.
2. The editorial unleashed a torrent of angry responses.

First Known Use of UNLEASH

circa 1671

Related to UNLEASH

Synonyms

loose, loosen, uncork, release, unlock, unloose, unloosen

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

Rhymes with UNLEASH

baksheesh, corniche, hashish, maxixe, pastiche, postiche, schottische