1 B1 idiomatic informal
To suddenly produce or bring out something, especially food, drink, or a special item.
"She cracked out a bottle of wine to celebrate the promotion."
separable
crack out
B2 informal separable transitive
To suddenly produce or bring out something, often with energy or enthusiasm.
In plain English
To suddenly take something out and start using it or doing it.
What does "crack out" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To suddenly display or use a skill or ability, often to impress others.
"He cracked out some impressive dance moves at the party."
separable
3 B2 idiomatic informal
To begin doing something with energy or without delay.
"We need to crack out the reports before the deadline tonight."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To break or split something outward — as if breaking open a container to retrieve what's inside.
Actually means
To suddenly take something out and start using it or doing it.
Usage tip
Often used informally when someone brings out food, drink, a skill, or a special item. Common in British and Australian English. Slightly informal/colloquial.
Words that pair with "crack out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
champagne guitar skills food jokes tools
How to conjugate "crack out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
crack out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cracks out
he/she/it
Past simple
cracked out
yesterday
Past participle
cracked out
have + pp
-ing form
cracking out
continuous
Hear "crack out" in the wild
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Other ways to say "crack out"
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Keep exploring
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