Definition of time–out
1 : a brief suspension of activity : break; especially : a suspension of play in an athletic game
2 : a quiet period used especially as a disciplinary measure for children
From the M-W Editors
Circa 1896
First Known Use of time–out
circa 1896
TIME–OUT Defined for English Language Learners
time-out
playDefinition of time–out for English Language Learners
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: a short period of time during a sports event when the game stops and the players rest or talk to their coach
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: a short period of time when you stop doing something so that you can rest or do something else
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: a short period of time when a child must sit quietly as punishment for behaving badly
TIME–OUT Defined for Kids
time–out
playDefinition of time–out for Students
1 : a short period during a game in which play is stopped
2 : a quiet period used as a way to discipline a child
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