lash out
Related to lash out: lash down
lash out
1. To physically swing or strike out at someone or something, usually unexpectedly. That ornery old cat will lash out at you if you get too close.
2. To react with sudden, intense anger. Hey, don't lash out at me, I'm just the messenger! I couldn't help but lash out when I heard about the latest printing mishap.
See also: lash, out
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
lash out (at someone or something)
and lash out (against someone or something)to strike out in defense or attack—physically or verbally. Amy was angry with Ed and lashed out at him just to show who was boss. She was so angry with him that she just lashed out against him. Gretchen was fed up with the cat and lashed out savagely in her anger.
See also: lash, out
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
lash out
Make a sudden blow or fierce verbal attack. For example, The mule lashed out with its hind legs, or After listening to Dad's criticism of his driving, Arthur lashed out at him. [Second half of 1500s]
See also: lash, out
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
lash out
v.
1. To aim a sudden blow; strike: The horse lashed out with its hind legs.
2. To make a scathing verbal or written attack on someone or something: The mayor lashed out at her critics during the interview. The defendant lashed out when asked about his arrest record.
See also: lash, out
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs.
- hit out
- lash out at (someone or something)
- lash out against (someone or something)
- lash up
- hold (someone or something) cheap
- pull the rug
- pull the rug (out) from under (someone)
- pull the rug (out) from under (someone's) feet
- pull the rug from under
- pull the rug out