let

UK: lɛt | US: lɛt

Definition

  1. vt. to allow or permit

  2. vt. to rent out (property)

  3. n. (in sports) a minor violation requiring a replay (e.g., tennis)

Structure
let <allow/permit>
Etymology

The word "let" traces back to Old English lǣtan, meaning "to allow, leave behind, or omit." It shares Germanic roots with Dutch laten and German lassen. Originally, it carried broader meanings like "to leave" or "to relax," but modern usage narrowed to "permit" or "rent." The sports sense (e.g., tennis) emerged in the 19th century as a specialized term for an obstruction requiring a replay.

Examples

  1. She didn’t let me finish my sentence.

  2. They decided to let their apartment for the summer.

  3. The serve was a let, so the player repeated it.

  4. Let the dough rise before baking.

  5. His strict parents rarely let him stay out late.