leak

leak · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An unintended hole or crack through which liquid or gas escapes.

  2. 2.

    To allow liquid or gas to escape through a hole or crack.

  3. 3.

    An unauthorized disclosure of confidential information.

  4. 4.

    To disclose confidential information without authorization.

Forms

plural: leaks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    spring a leak — to develop a leak suddenly
  • •
    leak out — (of information) to become known gradually
  • •
    take a leak — (informal) to urinate

Related words

Antonyms: containment, seal
See also: leaked, leaking, leaks
Synonyms: breach, disclosure, drip, seepage

Etymology

From Middle English leken, from Old Norse leka ("to drip, leak"), from Proto-Germanic lekaną. Related to Dutch lekken and German lecken.