Let

Definition

Let is a verb and, in some contexts, a noun. As a verb, it means to allow or permit something to happen. It can also mean to lease or rent property, particularly in British English. As a noun, it is used in sports like tennis to indicate a serve that must be replayed due to interference.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɛt/
• Respelling: LET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɛt/
• Respelling: LET

Etymology

The word "let" originates from Old English "lǣtan," meaning "to allow, permit, or leave," derived from Proto-Germanic "*lētaną," meaning "to allow" or "to let go." It is related to the Dutch "laten" and German "lassen," with similar meanings.

Derivatives

• Letting (noun/verb)
• Lettable (adjective)
• Let-down (noun)
• Let-go (noun/phrase)
• Sublet (verb/noun)

Synonyms

• Allow
• Permit
• Authorize

Antonyms

• Forbid
• Deny
• Prevent

Usage

The verb "let" is frequently used in conversational and formal contexts. For example, "Let them play outside" conveys permission. In British English, it is commonly used in rental contexts, as in "The landlord let the flat to a new tenant." The noun form is less common and appears in sports terminology.

Related Terms

• Allow: To give permission for something.
• Lease: To rent property for a period of time.
• Permit: To authorize or enable something to happen.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To allow or permit something to happen: Refers to granting permission.
  • Example: "She let her friend borrow the car."
• To lease or rent property (chiefly British): Refers to granting use of a property in exchange for payment.
  • Example: "They let their apartment to a family."

Noun

• A serve in tennis or similar games that must be replayed: Refers to an interference or obstruction.
  • Example: "The umpire called a let after the ball clipped the net."