let\ go

v

1a. To stop holding something; loosen your hold; release.

The boy grabbed Jack's coat and would not let go.

- Often used with "of".

When the child let go of her mother's hand, she fell down.

Compare: give up(1a), let loose.

1b. To weaken and break under pressure

The old water pipe suddenly let go and water poured out of it.

Syn.: give way Contrast: hold on to

2. To pay no attention to; neglect.

Robert let his teeth go when he was young and now he has to go to the dentist often.

After she was married, Jane let herself go and was not pretty anymore.

3. To allow something to pass; do nothing about.

When Charles was tardy, the teacher scolded him and let it go at that.

The children teased Frank, but he smiled and let it go.

Compare: let off(2), let ride

4. To discharge from a job; fire.

Mr. Wilson got into a quarrel with his boss and was let go.

5. To make (smth) go out quickly; shoot; fire.

The soldiers let go a number of shots.

Robin Hood let go an arrow at the deer.

Paul was so angry that he let go a blow at the boy.

The truck driver saw the flat tire and let go a loud curse.

The pitcher let go a fast ball and the batter swung and missed.

Compare: cut loose, let out

6. informal • let oneself go

To be free in one's actions or talk; relax.

Judge Brown let go at the reunion of his old class and had a good time.

The cowboys worked hard all week, but on Saturday night they went to town and let themselves go.

Syn.: cut loose, let loose(3), let off steam(2)