Langimage
English

turn-off

|turn-off|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈtɜrnˌɔf/

🇬🇧

/ˈtɜːnˌɒf/

loss of interest

Etymology
Etymology Information

'turn-off' originates from the combination of 'turn' and 'off', where 'turn' meant 'to change direction' and 'off' indicated 'away from'.

Historical Evolution

'turn' changed from Old English 'turnian' and 'off' from Old English 'of', eventually forming the modern English word 'turn-off'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to change direction away from something', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a road that leaves another road' and 'something that causes a loss of interest'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a road that leaves another road.

Take the next turn-off to reach the highway.

Synonyms

Noun 2

something that causes a loss of interest or enthusiasm.

His rude behavior was a major turn-off.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to cause someone to lose interest or enthusiasm.

The loud music turned me off.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/05 17:37