1 A2 neutral
To allow fresh air into a room or onto an object to remove bad smells or moisture.
"We always air out the cabin for a few hours before we start using it after winter."
separable
air out
A2 neutral separable transitive
To allow fresh air into a room or onto an object to remove stale smells or dampness, or figuratively to openly discuss a problem.
In plain English
To open windows or doors to let fresh air in, or to talk openly about something that has been kept hidden.
What does "air out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To discuss openly a problem, grievance, or complaint that has been building up.
"The team meeting gave everyone a chance to air out their frustrations."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To let air move out (and through) — ventilating a space by allowing air to flow in and stale air to leave.
Actually means
To open windows or doors to let fresh air in, or to talk openly about something that has been kept hidden.
Usage tip
Very common in everyday domestic English. The figurative sense ('air out grievances') is informal and common in American English. Separable: 'air the room out' or 'air out the room'.
Words that pair with "air out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
room bedding clothes house grievances differences
How to conjugate "air out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
air out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
airs out
he/she/it
Past simple
aired out
yesterday
Past participle
aired out
have + pp
-ing form
airing out
continuous
Hear "air out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "air out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "air out"
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