unleash

verb

un·​leash ˌən-ˈlēsh How to pronounce unleash (audio)
unleashed; unleashing; unleashes

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 pointThe New York Times

Examples of unleash in a Sentence

The storm unleashed its fury. The editorial unleashed a torrent of angry responses.
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.
In a special Halloween episode, Trump tearing down the East Wing unleashes a vengeful spirit, leading members of his administration to hold a seance. Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 2 Nov. 2025 Then, two outs away, Rojas unleashed a homer. Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 2 Nov. 2025 This week, Rosalía taps Björk and Yves Tumor for a dramatic taste of her excellent upcoming album Lux, Florence + the Machine unleash their raging sixth studio LP, and Tyler, the Creator offers an epic journey through his past for the Chromakopia deluxe version. Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2025 Rescue efforts are underway across the Caribbean after Hurricane Melissa unleashed widespread destruction in Jamaica, Cuba and the Bahamas. Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 31 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unleash

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1671, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unleash was circa 1671

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unleash.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unleash. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

unleash

verb
un·​leash ˌən-ˈlēsh How to pronounce unleash (audio)
: to free from or as if from a leash
unleash a dog
the storm unleashed its fury

More from Merriam-Webster on unleash

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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