outlet

noun

out·​let ˈau̇t-ˌlet 

-lət

1

a

: a place or opening through which something is let out : exit, vent

b

: a means of release or satisfaction for an emotion or impulse

sexual outlets

c

: a medium of expression or publication

d

: a publication or broadcast organization

media outlets

2

: a stream flowing out of a lake or pond

3

a

: a market for a commodity

b

: an agency (such as a store) through which a product is marketed

retail outlets

4

: a receptacle for the plug of an electrical device

Synonyms

• egress
• exit
• issue

Examples of outlet in a Sentence

this road is the only outlet for traffic coming from the racetrack

technology has provided many new outlets for amateur writers and artists to share their work with a global audience

Recent Examples on the Web

The news was quickly confirmed by several other outlets, including NewsNation, CNN, Axios and Politico. —Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025

There’s been some interest in buying the platform without its secret sauce, most notably from billionaire Frank McCourt, and multiple outlets reported this week that China was exploring a sale to Musk — but both of these outcomes feel like moonshots as the ban deadline draws near. —Ryan Bort, Rolling Stone, 16 Jan. 2025

Pilot David Paul Allsop, as reported by outlets including WJCL and WLS, was arrested on Wednesday morning. —Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 16 Jan. 2025

Moderate-sized batteries mean even a household outlet can suffice to recharge the car overnight, delivering enough range for the average commute. —Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ut-lete, from ut out + -lete watercourse, from Old English gelǣt, from lǣtan to let

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing outlet

• outlet pass
• thoracic outlet syndrome

Kids Definition

outlet

noun

out·​let ˈau̇t-ˌlet 

-lət

1

: a place or opening through which something is let out : exit, vent

2

: a means of release or satisfaction

an outlet for her grief

3

a

: a market for a product

b

: an agency (as a store or dealer) through which a product is marketed

4

: an electrical device (as in a wall) into which an appliance may be plugged

Medical Definition

outlet

noun

out·​let ˈau̇t-ˌlet, -lət 

1

: an opening or a place through which something is let out

the pelvic outlet

2

: a means of release or satisfaction for an emotion or impulse

counseling provides an outlet for expressing and evaluating their feelings

—Vicki Glaser