unleash

verb

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

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 point.—The New York Times
3
: to allow or cause (something powerful) to happen suddenly
The storm unleashed its fury.
The editorial unleashed a flood/torrent of angry responses.

Synonyms of unleash

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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.
Kane unleashed a huge smile before engulfing Bellingham in a big embrace. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 28 June 2026 The arrow hurdled forward, unleashing an audible woosh followed by a distant thwack. — Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026 When Miller unleashed another slider, Suzuki showed no hesitation. — Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2026 Contreras unleashed a massive bat flip after ripping a 421-foot homer in what became a 6-3 Boston victory. — CBS News, 30 June 2026 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

Rhymes for unleash

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Browse Nearby Words

unleased
unleash
unleavened
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unleash.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unleash. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of unleash for Spanish Speakers

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