space out

Idioms

Stupefy or disorient, as if or from a drug. For example, This medication spaces me out so I can't think clearly, or I wonder what those kids are on—they look totally spaced out. [1960s] Also see zone out.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They created space out wide and Steyn galloped away from Yoram Moefana to strike from 45m.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

Services can include detailed instructions on which cards to open and how to space out card applications to limit damage to credit scores.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

“There’s no reason to delay or space out vaccines,” O’Leary said.

From Salon • Dec. 6, 2025

Because she had to space out her lessons more, she had to wait longer until she felt ready to take her test.

From BBC • May 24, 2025

“Hello? How you gonna ask a question and then space out entirely when I’m answering?”

From "Dactyl Hill Squad" by Daniel José Older

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023