let (something) rip

1. To let something go; to start something up. Often used as an imperative. OK, the rocket is ready to launch. Let that thing rip! I replaced the spark plug, so go ahead and let it rip so we can see if there's any difference. We've spent so long working on this ad campaign that I'm excited to finally let it rip.

2. To do something without inhibition or restraint, typically with great enthusiasm or force. Wow, did you see that kick? He really let it rip. When I'm writing a first draft, I like to just let it rip and not worry about typos or grammar.

See also: let, rip

let rip

1. To let out a wild, uncontrolled burst of anger or frustration. Wow, I've never seen Dave let rip into anyone like that. He's usually so mild mannered. I was expecting Mom to really let rip after she found out we'd broken the window, but she just sent us to our room.

2. To fart, especially noisily and indiscreetly. I can't believe you let rip in front of my parents like that. I was absolutely mortified.

See also: let, rip

let rip

INFORMAL

COMMON

1. If you let rip, you stop controlling yourself and suddenly do something with great energy or emotion. She throws her head back and lets rip with the loudest scream imaginable. Note: You can also say that someone lets it rip with the same meaning. Halfway through the song she lets it rip and you really feel the power of that voice. All of them know exactly when to let it rip and when to tread softly.

2. If you let rip, you suddenly express strong opinions and feelings about a subject that you previously didn't allow yourself to talk about. Every now and then in a relationship it's good to just let rip and say exactly how you feel. When he quit the Commons he let rip, claiming Parliament was `a club for fat, tired, unfit old men'.

See also: let, rip

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

let rip

1 do something or proceed vigorously or without restraint. 2 express yourself vehemently or angrily. informal

See also: let, rip

let something rip

1 allow something, especially a vehicle, to go at full speed. 2 allow something to happen forcefully or without interference. 3 express something forcefully and noisily. informal

let ˈrip (at somebody) (with something)

(informal) speak or do something with great force, enthusiasm, etc. and without control: He was furious. He let rip at me with a stream of abuse. ♢ In the last song, the singer really let rip.

See also: let, rip

let something ˈrip

(informal) allow a car, boat, etc. to go as fast as possible: There’s a straight road ahead. Let it rip!