ENGLISH
REFERENCE

letting

n.
US //ˈɫɛtɪŋ// UK //lˈɛtɪŋ// let·ting
  1. 1 a rental agreement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Law

    a period of time when a property is rented to someone.

    the act of renting out a property, or the specific period of a tenancy agreement.

    Example

    The agency specialises in short-term lettings for business travellers.

    Example

    The landlord decided to terminate the letting after the tenant repeatedly failed to adhere to the noise regulations specified in the contract.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the context of 'short-term letting' or 'holiday letting'.
  2. 2 awarding a contract (n.)
    C1 Advanced American English Formal

    the act of giving a public job or contract to a specific company.

    the formal process of awarding a public contract, typically for construction or services.

    Example

    The city announced the letting of the new bridge contract yesterday.

    Example

    The state highway department delayed the letting of several major paving contracts due to unexpected budgetary constraints.

    Usage

    Often used in government or municipal contexts regarding infrastructure projects.

Last updated June 19, 2026