let in air; speak with missing teeth; leak secrets
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesverb
to let in air; to have gaps allowing wind to pass through
Describes objects with cracks or gaps, such as windows or bellows, that allow wind to pass through.
This bellows lets in air.
The window has cracks, so it lets in the wind in winter.
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This door doesn't close tightly and is a bit drafty.
verb
to speak with a gap in one's teeth; to speak with air escaping (due to missing teeth)
Describes the speech impediment caused by missing teeth, where air escapes through the gaps, creating a whistling sound.
After getting dentures, he no longer speaks with a gap in his teeth.
Grandpa lost a few teeth, so he speaks with a bit of a whistle.
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When children are losing their baby teeth, they tend to speak with gaps.
verb
to leak information; to let out a secret; to disclose confidential information
Figurative meaning referring to the disclosure of confidential information or secrets. Often used with phrases like 漏风出去 or 漏出风去.
Don't let this matter leak out for now.
The plan hasn't been announced yet, so make sure not to leak any information.
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He has a loose tongue and often leaks secrets.