rid

verb

ˈrid How to pronounce rid (audio)
rid also ridded; ridding
Synonyms of ridnext

transitive verb

1
: to make free : relieve, disencumber
rid the complexion of blemishes
be rid of worries
get rid of that junk
2
archaic : save, rescue

Synonyms

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Examples of rid in a Sentence

worked two jobs to rid himself of debt

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ridden to clear, probably from Old English *ryddan; akin to Old High German riutan to clear land, Old Norse rythja

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of rid was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing rid

Rhymes for rid

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Browse Nearby Words

rictus
rid
ridability
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rid. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

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Kids Definition

rid

verb
ˈrid How to pronounce rid (audio)
rid also ridded; ridding
: to make free : relieve
rid yourself of worries
get rid of that junk

More from Merriam-Webster on rid

Nglish: Translation of rid for Spanish Speakers

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