outlet

noun

out·​let ˈau̇t-ˌlet 

-lət

1

a

: a place or opening through which something is let out : exit, vent

b

: a means of release or satisfaction for an emotion or impulse

sexual outlets

c

: a medium of expression or publication

d

: a publication or broadcast organization

media outlets

2

: a stream flowing out of a lake or pond

3

a

: a market for a commodity

b

: an agency (such as a store) through which a product is marketed

retail outlets

4

: a receptacle for the plug of an electrical device

Synonyms

• exit

Examples of outlet in a Sentence

this road is the only outlet for traffic coming from the racetrack

technology has provided many new outlets for amateur writers and artists to share their work with a global audience

Recent Examples on the Web

SimilarWeb data indicates that major news outlets like Forbes, CNN, and Daily Mail, have seen traffic slump up to 40% since Google launched AI Overviews. —Charlie Fink, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

The suspect reportedly started chaining the alleged victim, whose identity has not been revealed, to the bed in June or July this year, the outlet noted, adding that he's accused of also taking her cell phone, wallet and keys and isolating her from her family, friends and work. —Becca Longmire, People.com, 7 Aug. 2025

For more Jet Set designs and similar styles, check out our favorite tote bags, handbags, and accessories in the designer outlet sale below before they’re gone. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 7 Aug. 2025

The Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal released a statement Aug. 5, addressing questions that have recently been asked by the public and local news outlets. —Noe Padilla, IndyStar, 6 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ut-lete, from ut out + -lete watercourse, from Old English gelǣt, from lǣtan to let

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing outlet

• outlet pass
• thoracic outlet syndrome

Rhymes for outlet

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• brevet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

Kids Definition

outlet

noun

out·​let ˈau̇t-ˌlet 

-lət

1

: a place or opening through which something is let out : exit, vent

2

: a means of release or satisfaction

an outlet for her grief

3

a

: a market for a product

b

: an agency (as a store or dealer) through which a product is marketed

4

: an electrical device (as in a wall) into which an appliance may be plugged

Medical Definition

outlet

noun

out·​let ˈau̇t-ˌlet, -lət 

1

: an opening or a place through which something is let out

the pelvic outlet

2

: a means of release or satisfaction for an emotion or impulse

counseling provides an outlet for expressing and evaluating their feelings

—Vicki Glaser