cut off

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cut off (third-person singular simple present cuts off, present participle cutting off, simple past and past participle cut off)

1. To remove via cutting.

   Synonyms: prune, trim

2. To isolate or remove from contact.
   • 1956, Arthur C. Clarke, The City and the Stars, page 37:

     The entranced spectator was cut off from reality as long as the adventure lasted; it was as if he lived a dream yet believed he was awake.

3. To stop providing funds to someone.

   His parents cut him off to encourage him to find a job.

4. To end abruptly.

   My phone call was cut off before I could get the information.

5. (idiomatic) To interrupt (someone speaking).

   That dingbat cut me off as I was about to conclude my theses.

6. (idiomatic, drive) To swerve in front of (another car).
7. (US, regional, Southern US) To turn off or switch off (an electrical device).

   Cut off the lamp so I can get some sleep.

cut off (plural cut offs)

1. fuse.

   A thermal cut-off.

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