# drive out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/drive-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To push or to pull, i.e. to force, (someone or something) out of somewhere.

## Examples

- The loud noise will drive out the birds.
- New construction projects often drive out local wildlife from the forest.
- The harsh economic conditions served to drive out many small businesses that had operated in the city for decades.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.