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Definitions

on the loose

ADJECTIVE
free
Synonyms
STRONGEST
able at large clear easy independent loose open unfettered unrestricted
STRONG
allowed disengaged escaped familiar forward frank liberal liberated permitted relaxed
WEAK
at liberty casual fancy-free footloose free-spirited free-wheeling informal lax off the hook on one's own unattached uncommitted unconfined unconstrained unengaged unhampered unimpeded unobstructed unregulated untrammeled
Antonyms
STRONGEST
blocked closed repressed restricted strict
STRONG
reserved
WEAK
confined limited restrained suppressed
ADJECTIVE
unconfined
Synonyms
WEAK
apart asunder at large at liberty baggy clear detached disconnected easy escaped flabby flaccid floating free free as a bird hanging insecure lax liberated limp loosened movable not fitting relaxed released separate slack slackened sloppy unattached unbolted unbound unbuttoned uncaged unclasped unconnected undone unfastened unfettered unhinged unhooked unlatched unlocked unpinned unrestrained unrestricted unsecured unshackled untied wobbly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Meanwhile, seven menacing figures in shaggy bleached-blond wigs are on the loose, looking like the world’s most dangerous bubblegum pop band.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 15, 2026

His Toyota teammate Evans, compromised by little grip having to open the road on the loose surface, ended the session in eighth, 50.3s off the lead.

From Barron's • Nov. 27, 2025

‘Lion’ on the loose in Ireland was a big dog ‘with a fresh haircut.’

From MarketWatch • Nov. 7, 2025

Police were first alerted to reports of lynx on the loose in the Drumguish area of the UK's biggest national park on 8 January.

From BBC • May 16, 2025

Is the man on the loose, riding in the caboose?”

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool