lash out
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To make a sudden violent attack.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Four Japanese torpedo boats launch an attack on the Suvorov. Despite burning steadily for several hours and now taking a torpedo to the stern, the ship still lashes out at its attackers with a few remaining guns. With no pressing need to continue the attack to closer range, the torpedo boats fall ba
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To make a fierce verbal attack.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To splash out (spend a lot of money).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “lash out” mean?
To make a sudden violent attack.
Is “lash out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.