leak
leak Lexical Profile
leak Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A hole, crack, or defect in a container, pipe, or covering through which liquid, gas, or light accidentally escapes or enters; or the fluid or gas that escapes.
"The plumber quickly located the source of the water leak beneath the kitchen sink."
An intentional or accidental disclosure of secret or confidential information to the public or the media.
"The committee launched an investigation to determine who was responsible for the security leak."
• verb
To accidentally lose or admit contents, especially liquid or gas, through a small hole or crack.
"The old wooden roof began to leak heavily during the autumn thunderstorm."
To intentionally disclose secret or confidential information to the public or media, or for such information to become known.
"An anonymous insider decided to leak the draft report to investigative journalists."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'leak' (a crack or accidental escape of fluid or information) with its homophone 'leek' (an edible vegetable related to the onion).
• Rhymes for leak
Word Origin & Etymology
Entered Middle English in the 14th century via Middle Dutch 'leken' or Old Norse 'leka' (to drip or let water through), reinforced by Old English 'hlec' (having cracks).