# flare out

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flare-out
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. to become wider

phrasal verb · CEFR B2

to gradually become wider at one end, like the bottom of a skirt or a pair of trousers.

For teachers: to spread outward from a central axis or narrow point, creating a wider shape at the extremity.

- The designer made the dress so that it would flare out at the waist.
- The skirt was tailored to flare out dramatically as the dancer spun, creating a sense of fluid motion across the stage.

Usage: Intransitive; the subject is usually a piece of clothing or a structural element.

### 2. to burst with emotion

phrasal verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to suddenly become very angry or to show strong feelings.

For teachers: to erupt or intensify suddenly, particularly in reference to temper, violence, or a physical condition.

- His temper tended to flare out whenever someone questioned his authority.
- Long-standing tensions between the two factions began to flare out into open conflict after the negotiations collapsed.

Usage: Intransitive; often used interchangeably with 'flare up' in modern contexts.

Teaching tip: While 'flare up' is more common for illnesses or sudden anger, 'flare out' is frequently used when the emotion or conflict spreads or becomes visible to others.

## Examples

- The bottom of her jeans flare out over her boots.
- The architect designed the base of the tower to flare out, providing extra stability against the wind.
- As the dancer spun, her silk skirt began to flare out, creating a vibrant circle of color that captivated the entire audience.

## Usage notes

- Teaching tip: connect this to the noun 'flare' used for emergency lights or the shape of 'flared jeans' to help students visualize the widening motion.

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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.