soltar

Senses

1. 1.

   to release, to let go

   to free something or someone from restraint or confinement

2. 2.

   to loosen, to unfasten

   to make something less tight or to undo a fastening

3. 3.

   to let out, to utter

   to emit a sound, cry, or exclamation

4. 4.

   to let loose, to set free

   to allow something to move freely or escape

Examples

• "A polícia soltou o suspeito por falta de provas."

  The police released the suspect due to lack of evidence.

• "Ela soltou o cabelo e ficou mais bonita."

  She let her hair down and looked prettier.

• "O cachorro soltou um latido quando viu o estranho."

  The dog let out a bark when it saw the stranger.

Usage

Very common verb in Brazilian Portuguese. Often used with "soltar a voz" (to sing out), "soltar pipa" (to fly a kite), and "soltar fogos" (to set off fireworks). The pronominal form "soltar-se" means to break free or loosen up (figuratively or literally).