v.
- set free.
- allow to move or flow freely.
▸remove (part of a machine or appliance) from a fixed position, allowing something else to move or function.
- allow (information) to be generally available.
▸make (a film or recording) available to the public.
- Law remit or discharge (a debt).
▸surrender (a right).
▸make over (property or money) to another.
n.
- the action or process of releasing or being released.
▸a handle or catch that releases part of a mechanism.
- a film or other product released to the public.
- Law the action of releasing property, money, or a right to another.
▸a document effecting this.
Derivative
- releasable adj.
- releasee n. (Law ).
- releaser n.
- releasor n. (Law ).
Etymology
ME: from OFr. reles (n.), relesser (v.), from L. relaxare (see relax).