Pronunciation: [lˈaʃɪz ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA) 
The phrase "lashes out" is commonly used to describe when someone suddenly and aggressively responds to a situation or person. The spelling of this phrase is relatively straightforward. "Lashes" is spelled with the /æ/ vowel sound, which is represented in IPA with the symbol æ. "Out" is spelled with the /aʊ/ diphthong, which is represented in IPA with the symbols a and ʊ. Together, the phrase is pronounced /ˈlæʃɪz aʊt/.
Lashes out is a phrasal verb that is commonly used to describe the act of responding aggressively, angrily, or impulsively towards someone or something. It refers to a sudden outburst of anger or aggression, often accompanied by a physical or verbal attack or an emotionally charged reaction.
When someone lashes out, they express their anger or frustration in a forceful and uncontrolled manner. This can include yelling, shouting, insulting, or even physically attacking others. The person may lose their temper, often due to feeling provoked, mistreated, or overwhelmed by a particular situation.
This phrase is often used to describe a reactive behavior that is driven by a strong emotional reaction. It can occur when someone feels threatened, attacked, or intensely irritated, leading them to lash out in an attempt to defend themselves or release their pent-up feelings.
"Lashes out" can sometimes also be used metaphorically to describe a powerful and fierce response or retaliation against a situation or concept. For example, someone may "lash out" against injustice, corruption, or any form of oppression, expressing their vehement disapproval or resistance through various means, such as speaking out, protesting, or advocating for change.
Overall, when someone lashes out, it implies a sudden and intense emotional response, which often manifests in aggression, anger, or an impulsive reaction towards others or against a particular issue.
The phrase "lashes out" derives from the combination of two words: "lashes" and "out".
The verb "lash" dates back to Middle English and originally meant "to strike or beat with a whip or lash". It has roots in the Old English word "lǣscan". Over time, "lash" came to be associated with inflicting punishment or physical harm, as well as expressing anger or criticism forcefully.
The word "out" is a preposition that indicates movement away from a particular place or state. It can also imply the publicizing or expressing of something in a forceful manner.
When combined, "lashes out" describes an action in which someone forcefully or aggressively strikes or criticizes, generally in response to a provocation or strong emotion. It suggests a sudden outburst or sharp reaction.
