VocabDictionary

cast off

/kรฆst ษ’f/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To release a boat or ship from its moorings; to set sail or depart.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe captain gave the order to cast off just as the tide began to rise.โ€
  • โ€œWe untied the ropes and cast off, waving goodbye to our friends on the dock.โ€
2.verb

To get rid of someone or something that is no longer wanted or needed.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œIt is time to cast off old habits that hold you back.โ€
  • โ€œShe decided to cast off her fears and embrace the new adventure.โ€
3.verb

To bind off stitches in knitting to finish an edge.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œMake sure not to pull the yarn too tight when you cast off your stitches.โ€
  • โ€œShe finally reached the end of the scarf and needed to cast off.โ€
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for โ€œcast offโ€.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'cast' (meaning to throw or discard) combined with the directional adverb 'off'. Originally rooted in nautical terminology from the Middle English period, where sailors would literally throw off or release ropes and mooring lines to push a boat away from the dock.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Imagine a fisherman 'casting' his old, unwanted jacket 'off' into the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions About โ€œcast offโ€

1. What is the meaning of โ€œcast offโ€ in English?

In English, cast off (verb) is defined as: โ€œTo release a boat or ship from its moorings; to set sail or depart.โ€.

2. How do you use โ€œcast offโ€ in a sentence?

โ€œThe captain gave the order to cast off just as the tide began to rise.โ€

3. What are English synonyms of โ€œcast offโ€?

Common synonyms include:discard,abandon,release,shed,depart

4. What is the etymology and word origin of โ€œcast offโ€?

Derived from the verb 'cast' (meaning to throw or discard) combined with the directional adverb 'off'. Originally rooted in nautical terminology from the Middle English period, where sailors would literally throw off or release ropes and mooring lines to push a boat away from the dock.

cast off Meaning in English - English Definition & Pronunciation | Vocab Dictionary | Vocab Dictionary