on the loose
phrase
: able to move freely : not controlled or held in a prison, cage, etc.
—used especially to describe a dangerous person, animal, or group
The prisoner escaped and is still on the loose.
A killer is on the loose.
An angry mob was on the loose.
Examples of on the loose in a Sentence
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Gordon showed speed and smarts to pounce on the loose ball and quickly find the feet of his captain.
—
Liam Tharme,
New York Times,
2 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for on the loose
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Liam Tharme,
New York Times,
2 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for on the loose
Cite this Entry
“On the loose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20loose. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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