blowoff

[ bloh-awf, -of ]

noun

1. a current of escaping surplus steam, water, etc.:

   The safety valve released a violent blowoff from the furnace.

2. a device that permits and channels such a current.
3. Slang. a person who brags or boasts; a blow-hard.
4. a temporary, sudden surge, as in prices:

   The Federal Reserve Board's credit tightening could cause a blowoff in interest rates.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blowoff¹

First recorded in 1830–40; noun use of verb phrase blow off

Example Sentences

“Even before the pandemic, people thought of Friday as a kind of blowoff day. And now there’s a growing expectation that you can work from home to jump-start your weekend.”

From Washington Post

Regions with frequent storms need to be inspected for potential blowoff and roof strength.

From Seattle Times

“I had been seeing a guy for a few weeks but was promptly socially distanced with a text that reminded me of the Dear John messages that I was accustomed to receiving as a single gal in Los Angeles ending with ‘This sounds like a blowoff, but I hope you understand it’s not that at all.

From Los Angeles Times

They will vote on whether to turn away from smash-mouth politics or double down on a presidency that serves as a national blowoff valve.

From Washington Post

“I did kind of think it would be a blowoff class.”

From Washington Post

Related Words

• conclusion
• event
• fallout
• issue
• reaction
• result