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lash out

B1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To suddenly hit, kick, or say something very mean and angry at someone.

Literal meaning: A lash is a blow from a whip; 'lashing out' pictures making a sudden, wide striking movement outward.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To suddenly and violently attack someone physically.

"Startled by the noise, the horse lashed out and kicked the stable door."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To suddenly say something very angry or critical to or about someone.

"After weeks of stress, he finally lashed out at his team in a meeting."

"He lashed out at his critics, calling them 'enemies of the people.'"

— Various news headlines, widely attributed in political reporting, 2010s–2020s
Grammar: inseparable
3 C1 idiomatic informal

(British, informal, dated) To spend a large amount of money, especially as a treat.

"He lashed out on a new suit for the wedding."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Very common in both British and American English. Can be physical or verbal. Often followed by 'at': 'lash out at someone'. In British slang, 'lash out' can also mean to spend a lot of money on something, but this sense is now uncommon.

Commonly used with

anger frustration critics media opponent pain

Forms

Base
lash out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lashes out
he/she/it
Past simple
lashed out
yesterday
Past participle
lashed out
have + pp
-ing form
lashing out
continuous

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Synonyms

strike out hit out snap attack turn on go for

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