relâcher

to release

verb reh-lah-SHEH Less Common

Also means

to relax

Usage Note

Relâcher means to release a person, animal, or tension, and also to relax one's grip or discipline. The reflexive se relâcher means 'to let oneself go' or 'to slacken'. Note the circumflex on â, which affects pronunciation (a more open 'a'). The related noun relâche means a pause or day off (especially in theatre).

Examples

"La police a relâché le suspect hier soir."

Natural Translation

The police released the suspect last night.

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