Definition

Verb (transitive, informal): 1. To expel or eject someone from a place, often forcefully or unceremoniously. 2. To remove someone from a position, job, or office, often suddenly or against their will.

Usage and Examples

The verb "boot out" is commonly used in informal contexts to describe forcing someone to leave.

• Expelling from a place:

  • The bouncer booted out the troublemakers from the bar.
  • They were booted out of the library for being too loud.

• Removing from a position:

  • The board of directors booted out the CEO due to the financial scandal.
  • After the election, the new mayor booted out all the old advisors.

Advanced Usage

• Passive Voice: Frequently used in the passive voice ("to be/get booted out") to emphasize the experience of the person being removed.
  • He got booted out of the meeting for arguing with the chairperson.
• Figurative Use: Can be used figuratively for non-human subjects.
  • The new software update booted out several older, incompatible programs.

Variants and Related Words

• Boot (verb): Can be used similarly without "out," especially in the context of computing (e.g., ) or expelling (e.g., ).
• Kick out (phrasal verb): A very close synonym with identical meaning and register.

Synonyms

• Expel
• Eject
• Oust
• Throw out
• Remove

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Boot up: To start a computer. (Note: This is a different phrasal verb with the opposite meaning of initiating something).
  • I need to boot up my laptop to check the email.

Verb

1. put out or expel from a place
   • The unruly student was excluded from the game
2. remove from a position or office
   • The chairman was ousted after he misappropriated funds