leak definition - Dictionary

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leak

leak [ leek ]

noun (plural leaks)

Definition:

1. hole or crack: an unintentional hole or crack that permits something such as liquid, gas, or light to escape or enter

2. accidental escape or entry: the accidental escape or unwanted entry of something, usually by way of an unintentional hole or crack

3. escaping liquid or gas: something such as liquid or gas that escapes through an unintentional hole or crack

4. means of escape: a means of escape, or the resulting loss by means of it

We need to plug the leak in our finances.

5. disclosure of secrets: an unofficial release of confidential information, usually to the media

6. accidental escape of electricity: a place through which an electric current escapes accidentally, or the resulting loss of electricity

7. urination: an act of urination ( slang )

transitive and intransitive verb (past and past participle leaked, present participle leak·ing, 3rd person present singular leaks)

Definition:

1. let something in or out: to let something escape or enter accidentally, or escape or enter in this way

2. disclose secrets, or be disclosed: to release confidential information unofficially or covertly, usually to the media, or become publicly known in such a way

She leaked the details of the deal to the press.

The news has leaked.

[15th century. Origin ?]

leak·er noun

Spelling Note


	Do not confuse the spelling of leak and leek (the vegetable), which sound similar. Leak is a noun meaning "accidental escape of a liquid or gas" or "a disclosure of confidential information"; it is also used in these meanings as a verb. Leek denotes a green and white vegetable with an onion flavor.