ˈɛgzət,
ˈɛksət
plural exits
1
: something (such as a door) that is used as a way to go out of a place
Use the emergency exit in case of fire.
There are 12 exits in the building.
We can't get out this way: the sign says "No Exit."
the exit door
—sometimes used figurativelyThe deal provides an exit for the company. [=a way for the company to stop being involved in something]
Note: In U.S. English a door or passage that leads outside or to an exit door is marked Exit, while in British English it is often marked Way Out.
2
a
: the act of going out or away from something
Her exit [=departure] was not noticed at the time.
He made a quick exit. [=he left quickly]
We made an early exit from the show. [=we left the show early]
b
: the act of leaving a situation, competition, etc.
Most fans were surprised by the team's early exit from the tournament. [=surprised that the team lost and was out of the tournament at an early stage]
The company needs to have an exit strategy. [=a plan for ending its involvement when it wants or needs to end it]
3
: a special road by which vehicles leave a highway
Take the first exit.
exit ramps
exits; exited; exiting
1
: to go out of a place or situation : to make an exit
We can exit (out) through the back door.
exit a building
exit the parking lot
The team exited the tournament early.
2
: to cause (a computer program) to stop when you have finished using it
Save your work and then exit the program.
Cite this Entry
“Exit.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/exit. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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