Off

/ɔf/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A state or condition of being turned off.

Make sure the off is secure before leaving.

adjective

Not in use; not connected.

The off switch controls the machine.

adverb

Away from a place or position.

He walked off into the distance.

Not in operation; not functioning.

The lights are off.

To a lesser degree or extent.

Turn the volume down a bit more off.

preposition

Away from; not on.

Please take your shoes off the table.

Disengaged from; separated from.

She cut off a piece of paper.

Old English 'of', meaning 'away from'.

off the hook

No longer in trouble or not being held responsible.

off the record

Not intended for publication or attribution.

off guard

Caught by surprise.

off and on

Occasionally or intermittently.

offhand

Without premeditation or preparation.

offshore

Located or based outside one's own country.

To go away or to leave.

He just took off without saying goodbye.

To kill or eliminate.

They need to off that plan before it causes problems.

To make someone lose focus.

Stop offing me with all your distractions!