outlet

American  

[out-let, -lit] / ˈaʊt lɛt, -lɪt /

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.

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outlet British  

/ 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 )

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Etymology

Origin of outlet

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

Example Sentences

Orla's mother told the outlet that the family had chosen to donate her organs to the hospital to help others.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

Schneider also observed that the artist “appears to be doing very well” and “when treated, he is much better off, and society is much better off,” the outlet said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

Mike Barnes, from Preston, Lancashire, started running when he turned aged 70 after needing an outlet for his grief.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Amazon has been in lengthy talks with both Globalstar and Apple, which holds a 20% stake in the satellite operator, the media outlet reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

The students continued to write and began to forge stronger identities and to create a sense of community and an outlet for expression.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

Related Words

• market
• shop
• showroom