blowoff

[bloh-awf, -of]

noun

1. a current of escaping surplus steam, water, etc..

   The safety valve released a violent blowoff from the furnace.

2. a device that permits and channels such a current.

3. Slang.,  a person who brags or boasts; a blow-hard.

4. a temporary, sudden surge, as in prices.

   The Federal Reserve Board's credit tightening could cause a blowoff in interest rates.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blowoff¹

First recorded in 1830–40; noun use of verb phrase blow off

Example Sentences

“Even before the pandemic, people thought of Friday as a kind of blowoff day. And now there’s a growing expectation that you can work from home to jump-start your weekend.”

Read more on Washington Post

Regions with frequent storms need to be inspected for potential blowoff and roof strength.

Read more on Seattle Times

“I had been seeing a guy for a few weeks but was promptly socially distanced with a text that reminded me of the Dear John messages that I was accustomed to receiving as a single gal in Los Angeles ending with ‘This sounds like a blowoff, but I hope you understand it’s not that at all.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

They will vote on whether to turn away from smash-mouth politics or double down on a presidency that serves as a national blowoff valve.

Read more on Washington Post

“I did kind of think it would be a blowoff class.”

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Related Words

• conclusion 
• event 
• fallout 
• issue 
• reaction 
• result