release
8 synonyms and 1 antonyms for release, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To set free or allow to leave, especially from captivity or confinement.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use release
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French relaisser, itself from Latin relaxare, "to loosen or open again."
Full origin of release →Frequently asked questions
What does “release” mean?
The word “release” means to set free or allow to leave, especially from captivity or confinement. In plain terms, to let go of something, or to put it out into the world.
How do you pronounce “release”?
“Release” is pronounced ruh-LEES (/ɹəˈliːs/ in IPA).
How do you use “release” in a sentence?
Here is “release” used in a sentence: “The hostages were released after two days.”
What is another word for “release”?
Words with a similar meaning to “release” include quietus.
What is the opposite of “release”?
The opposite of “release” — its antonyms — is hold.
What part of speech is “release”?
Depending on how it is used, “release” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “release” come from?
The word “release” comes from Latin. From Old French relaisser, itself from Latin relaxare, "to loosen or open again.".
Is “release” a common word?
“Release” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between release and relieve?
To release is to set something or someone free, as in releasing a prisoner or letting go of a rope. To relieve is to ease a burden, pain or pressure, or to take over someone's duty. The words sound similar but do different jobs: one frees, the other lightens.
What are the different meanings of release?
Besides setting someone free, release can mean to let go of a grip, to make something available to the public, such as a film, album or product, or to issue an official statement. All the senses share one idea: allowing something that was held back to move out freely.
What is the opposite of release?
The opposites center on holding or restraining: capture, detain, confine, hold and imprison all describe keeping someone or something under control rather than letting it go. When release means making a product available, the contrast is to withhold or delay it instead. Context tells you which fits.