hit out

hit out

1. To physically swing or strike out at someone or something, usually unexpectedly. That ornery old cat will hit out at you if you get too close.

2. To react with sudden, intense anger. Hey, don't hit out at me, I'm just the messenger! I couldn't help but hit out when I heard about the latest printing mishap.

3. To depart for some place. The party was great, but we hit out for home as soon as we heard police sirens approaching.

See also: hit, out

hit out (for something or some place)

Rur. to start out for something or some place. We hit out for the top of the hill early in the morning, and it was noon before we got there. We'll hit out about noon.

See also: hit, out

hit out

Make a violent verbal or physical attack; also, strike aimlessly. For example, The star hit out at the press for their lukewarm reviews, or The therapist said patients often hit out in frustration. [First half of 1800s]

See also: hit, out