1 B2 neutral
To widen gradually toward the bottom or end, like a flared skirt or trouser leg.
"The dress flared out from the waist into a full, dramatic skirt."
flare out
B2 neutral intransitive
To widen or spread outward, like the shape of a flare; or for a flame or light to spread outward.
In plain English
To get wider or spread outward at the ends, like the bottom of a skirt.
What does "flare out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
For a flame or light to spread outward suddenly.
"The torch flared out in the darkness, illuminating the cave walls."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
Like a flare rocket spreading its light outward — something widening from a central point.
Actually means
To get wider or spread outward at the ends, like the bottom of a skirt.
Usage tip
Used in fashion to describe skirts or trousers widening at the hem. Also used for fire or light spreading outward. Less common than 'flare up'. 'Flared' as an adjective ('flared jeans') is much more common than the verb form.
Words that pair with "flare out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
skirt trousers jeans hem nostrils flame
How to conjugate "flare out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
flare out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
flares out
he/she/it
Past simple
flared out
yesterday
Past participle
flared out
have + pp
-ing form
flaring out
continuous
Hear "flare out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "flare out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "flare out"
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Keep exploring
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