pull out

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see pull, out.

   • I need to pull the splinter out of my hand.
2. 2

   To withdraw

   To withdraw; especially of military forces; to retreat.

   • The troops pulled out of the conflict.
   • The mayor pulled out of the race for Senate after numerous opinion polls had him polling at less than 10 percent.
   • The racehorse pulled out of the Stakes with a hurt foot.
3. 3

   To transition from a dive to level or climbing flight.

   • After releasing its bomb, the plane pulled out of its dive.
4. ›+ 6 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      To use coitus interruptus as a method of birth control.

      • Shortly before you ejaculate, you can pull out and use your hand (or hers) to push yourself over the edge. Some of my patients claim this is a more natural method of birth control[…]
   2. 5

      To remove something from a container.

      • He pulled his gun out before she had a chance to scream.
   3. 6

      To maneuver a vehicle from the side of a road onto the lane.

      • When joining a road, you should check for traffic before pulling out.
   4. 7

      To draw out or lengthen.

   5. 8

      To draw out by dragging or tugging.

      • The robbers ransacked the place, pulling out drawers and opening closets.
      • Wearing a green beret and a long, dark coat, the Santa Ana man pulled out a sword with a 3-foot blade and calmly attacked in silence, almost beheading one of his victims.
      • Fraser was accused of pulling out the teeth of his victims with pliers.
   6. 9

      To succeed despite long odds.

      • Nobody thought they'd win, but the football team pulled out a victory.

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