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3. lash out

lash out

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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

lash out (at somebody/something)

to angrily criticize someone or something The mayor often lashes out at people who don't agree with him.

Usage notes: usually criticism of an opinion or statement

See also: lash, out

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

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