Out

Definition

The term "out" is used to indicate movement away from a place, position, or enclosure, or the state of being outside. It can function as an adverb, preposition, adjective, noun, or verb, depending on the context, often implying exposure, ejection, or availability.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Preposition
• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /aʊt/
• Respelling: OWT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /aʊt/
• Respelling: OWT

Etymology

The word "out" originates from Old English "ūt," meaning "out, away, or without," derived from Proto-Germanic "*ūt" and Proto-Indo-European "*ud-" (up, out). It has been used in English since before the 12th century to describe movement, location, or state.

Derivatives

• Outward (adjective/adverb)
• Outing (noun)
• Output (noun/verb)
• Outcast (noun/adjective)
• Outdo (verb)

Synonyms

• Outside
• Away
• Exposed

Antonyms

• In
• Inside
• Contained

Usage

The term "out" is widely used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example: "He went out for a walk," or "The secret is out now."

Related Terms

• External: Relating to the outside or outer part of something.
• Exit: A way out of a place or situation.
• Exposure: The state of being uncovered or revealed.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• Moving or appearing away from a place: Indicates motion from the interior to the exterior.
  • Example: "She went out of the room."
• In the open or exposed: Refers to being outside or visible.
  • Example: "The truth is finally out."

Preposition

• Beyond the limits of: Describes a position outside of a specified area.
  • Example: "He lives just out of town."

Adjective

• No longer inside or active: Indicates something that is absent, unavailable, or inactive.
  • Example: "The lights are out."

Noun

• An act or means of escape: Refers to a way to leave or resolve a situation.
  • Example: "He was looking for an out from the agreement."

Verb

• To reveal or expose something or someone: Often used in the context of bringing hidden information to light.
  • Example: "The journalist outed the scandal."