to allow something to be known, published, or made available to the public, to set someone free from a constraint or obligation, the act of setting someone or something free from a constraint or obligation

let someone off the hook (or let someone off the release), release the hounds, release the tension

release date, press release, release form

Formal and Informal Expressions of release

In different contexts, you can replace 'release' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'publish, discharge' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'let go, set free' is a commonplace synonym.

release: Explore its Definition & Usage

release Definition

1to allow something to be known, published, or made available to the public
2to set someone free from a constraint or obligation
3the act of setting someone or something free from a constraint or obligation

Using release: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "release" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The company plans to release a new product next month.
Example
The government released a statement regarding the issue.
Example
The prisoner was released from jail after serving his sentence.
Example
I need to release some stress by going for a run.

release Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for release

Antonyms for release

Idioms Using release

let someone off the hook (or let someone off the release)
to allow someone to escape from a difficult situation or punishment
Example
The teacher let the students off the hook for not completing their homework.
release the hounds
to set loose or unleash something dangerous or aggressive
Example
When the burglars entered the property, the owner released the hounds to scare them away.
release the tension
to relieve stress or anxiety
Example
After a long day at work, I like to listen to music to release the tension.

Phrases with release

release date
the date on which a product or service is made available to the public
Example
The release date for the new iPhone has been announced.
press release
an official statement issued to the news media giving information on a particular matter
Example
The company issued a press release announcing its financial results.
release form
a legal document that grants permission to use someone's image or likeness in a publication or broadcast
Example
The actor signed a release form allowing the use of his image in the advertisement.

Origins of release

from Old French 'relesser', meaning 'to release, let go, relinquish'

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Summary: release in Brief

The verb 'release' [rɪˈliːs] means to make something known or available to the public, or to free someone from a constraint or obligation. It can refer to products, statements, prisoners, or emotions, as in 'I need to release some stress by going for a run.' The phrase 'release date' denotes the day when a product or service becomes available, while 'press release' refers to an official statement given to the media. Idioms like 'let someone off the hook' and 'release the hounds' convey the idea of escaping punishment or unleashing something dangerous.