put off

verb

put off; putting off; puts off
Synonyms of put offnext

transitive verb

1
b
: repel
2
a
: to hold back to a later time
b
: to induce to wait
put the bill collector off
3
: to rid oneself of : take off
4
: to sell or pass fraudulently

Examples of put off in a Sentence

never put off until tomorrow what you can do today put off your coat and stay awhile
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dropping Buds And Flowers An underwatered plant may put off flowering and fruiting while focusing on staying healthy. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 May 2026 His request for mental health treatment had been put off, records show, and staff had forbidden Rayo from making his nightly call to his mother as a precaution intended to prevent the spread of illness. CBS News, 27 May 2026 The emerging deal puts off many critical issues to be resolved later and has already exposed the Republican president to fierce criticism — even from some of his own supporters — that Iran's hardline leaders will emerge from the conflict battered but emboldened. ABC News, 27 May 2026 The emerging deal puts off many critical issues to be resolved later and has already exposed the Republican president to fierce criticism — even from some of his own supporters — that Iran’s hardline leaders will emerge from the conflict battered but emboldened. Konstantin Toropin, Chicago Tribune, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for put off

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of put off was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Put off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/put%20off. Accessed 31 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

put off

verb
1
: to cause negative feelings in
your sloppy appearance put them off
2
: to hold back to a later time : defer
put off my visit to the dentist
3
: to rid oneself of
put off your coat

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