outlet

[out-let, -lit]

noun

1. an opening or passage by which anything is let out; vent; exit.

2. Electricity.

   1. a point on a wiring system at which current is taken to supply electric devices.

   2. Also called outlet box. the metal box or receptacle designed to facilitate connections to a wiring system.

3. a means of expression or satisfaction.

   an outlet for one's artistic impulses.

4. a market for goods.

5. a store, merchant, or agency selling the goods of a particular wholesaler or manufacturer.

6. a local radio or television station that broadcasts the programs of a large network.

7. a river or stream flowing from a body of water, as a lake or pond.

8. the channel such a river or stream follows.

9. the lower end or mouth of a river where it meets a large body of water, as a lake or the sea.

outlet

/ ˈaʊtlɛt, -lɪt /

noun

1. an opening or vent permitting escape or release

2. a means for release or expression of emotion, creative energy, etc

3. 1. a market for a product or service

   2. a commercial establishment retailing the goods of a particular producer or wholesaler

4. 1. a channel that drains a body of water

   2. the mouth of a river

5. a point in a wiring system from which current can be taken to supply electrical devices

6. anatomy the beginning or end of a passage, esp the lower opening of the pelvis ( pelvic outlet )

Word History and Origins

Origin of outlet¹

First recorded in 1200–50, outlet is from the Middle English word utlete. See out, let ¹

Example Sentences

Over the past decade, the partners expanded into a nearby cafe and two more outlets in the city.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

When news outlets treat trans lives as controversial subject matter rather than communities under attack, they contribute to the very climate that makes violence and discrimination more likely.

Read more on Salon

"It has become common that unfortunately, the former wine is readily available in secular outlets and bars," Archbishop Muheria told the BBC.

Read more on BBC

He died instantly while his fellow lawmakers were left injured, the news outlet added.

Read more on BBC

Some major news outlets initially wrote off the emerging epidemic as a “gay plague,” insinuating that other Americans didn’t need to worry about it.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• market 
• shop 
• showroom