set loose
Free from confinement
Set loose means to release from confinement or restraint.
You set loose a caged bird, a chained dog, or a prisoner.
The phrase often carries a sense of unleashing something potentially dangerous or chaotic: They set loose a pack of wolves in the preserve.
Figuratively, it describes releasing forces or emotions: The scandal set loose a flood of accusations.
- freeWithout payment or restriction
- releaseTo let go
- liberateSet free from captivity
- unbindTo release from bonds
- emancipateGrant freedom to
unshackle · untie · unpen · let go · unchain · off the chain · disentangle · uncage · unmuzzle · hounds · discharge · escape · extricate · unleash · open the floodgates · dogs · cry havoc · stampede