switch-off

[ swich-awf, -of ]

noun

1. the act or process of switching off a power supply, light source, appliance, etc.

switch off

verb

1. to cause (a device) to stop operating by or as if by moving a switch, knob, or lever; turn off
2. informal.
   to cease to interest or be interested; make or become bored, alienated, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of switch-off¹

Noun use of verb phrase switch off

Idioms and Phrases

Stop paying attention, lose interest, as in Whenever he starts in on economics, I switch off automatically . This metaphoric expression transfers turning off a light switch or similar device to diverting one's attention. [c. 1860] Also see switch on .

Example Sentences

Oh, Ah tell you, 'f ye wan' to make any money with a gover'men' still ye gotter have a switch-off that the gauger cain' fin.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• achieve
• break up
• cease
• close
• complete
• conclude
• culminate
• delay
• drop
• expire
• finish
• give up
• halt
• play out
• quit
• resolve
• settle
• stop
• terminate
• wind up