vent1
n.
- an opening that allows air, gas, or liquid to pass out of or into a confined space.
▸the opening of a volcano, through which lava and other materials are emitted.
▸chiefly Scottish a flue of a chimney.
-
(usu. in phr. give vent to)
release or expression of a strong emotion, energy, etc.
- the anus of a lower animal such as a fish, serving for both excretion and reproduction.
- historical the touch hole of a gun.
v.
- give free expression to (a strong emotion).
- discharge or expel (air, gas, or liquid) through an outlet.
▸provide with an outlet for air, gas, or liquid.
▸permit air to enter (a beer cask).
Derivative
- vented adj.
- ventless adj.
Etymology
ME: partly from Fr. vent ‘wind’, from L. ventus, reinforced by Fr. évent, from éventer ‘expose to air’.
vent2
n.
a slit in a garment, especially in the lower part of the seam at the back of a coat.
Etymology
ME: alt. of dial. fent, from OFr. fente ‘slit’, based on L. findere ‘cleave’.