Débarrasser (en. Rid)
/debɑʁase/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
verb
To remove (something) to free up space.
You need to clear the table before starting the meal.
Il faut débarrasser la table avant de commencer le repas.
To get rid of something.
She decided to get rid of her old sofa.
Elle a décidé de se débarrasser de son vieux canapé.
To free oneself from a burden or responsibility.
He hopes to get rid of his worries after the holidays.
Il espère se débarrasser de ses soucis après les vacances.
Etymology
The word comes from Old French 'barre', which means 'obstacle'. The prefix 'de-' implies the idea of elimination.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to get rid of something
To eliminate or free oneself from an object or obligation.
se débarrasser de quelque chose
to get rid of one’s belongings
To sort out and remove unnecessary items.
se débarrasser de ses affaires
Related Words
clearance
Space where unused items are stored.
débarras
bar
Obstruction or obstacle to something.
barre
to debark
To arrive from a boat, but also means to intervene unexpectedly.
débarquer
Slang Meanings
To get rid of a problem.
He managed to get rid of his money worries.
Il a réussi à se débarrasser de ses soucis d'argent.
To sneak out.
I cleared out of that boring evening by sneaking away discreetly.
Je me suis débarassé de cette soirée ennuyante en filant discrètement.