1. n. & v.
--n.
1. (also vent-hole) a hole or opening allowing motion of air etc. out of or into a confined space.
2 an outlet; free passage or play (gave vent to their indignation).
3 the anus esp. of a lower animal, serving for both excretion and reproduction.
4 the venting of an otter, beaver, etc.
5 an aperture or outlet through which volcanic products are discharged at the earth's surface.
6 a touch-hole of a gun.
7 a finger-hole in a musical instrument.
8 a flue of a chimney.
--v.
1. tr. a make a vent in (a cask etc.). b provide (a machine) with a vent.
2 tr. give vent or free expression to (vented my anger on the cat).
3 intr. (of an otter or beaver) come to the surface for breath.
Phrases and idioms:
vent one's spleen on scold or ill-treat without cause.
Derivatives:
ventless adj.
Etymology: partly F vent f. L ventus wind, partly F {eacute}vent f. {eacute}venter expose to air f. OF esventer ult. f. L ventus wind 2. n. a slit in a garment, esp. in the lower edge of the back of a coat.
Etymology: ME, var. of fent f. OF fente slip ult. f. L findere cleave