to make someone happy or satisfied
The surprise birthday party really pleased Maria.
It pleases the chef when diners enjoy his new dish.
✦ From Middle English ‘plese’, from Old French ‘plaisir’ meaning ‘to satisfy’.
to wish or choose to do something
On weekends, he sleeps as late as he pleases.
Guests may wander the gardens wherever they please.
to set a person, animal, or thing free after keeping them trapped, locked up, or held
The wildlife ranger gently released the rescued fox into the forest clearing.
After years of negotiation, the government decided to release the political prisoners.
✦ Middle English relecen, from Old French relacier “to let go”, from Latin relaxāre “to loosen”.
feeling happy or satisfied because something good has happened or someone has done something you like
Maya looked pleased when she saw her birthday cake.
The coach was pleased with the team's effort after the match.
used in polite statements to show you are willing or happy to do something
We would be pleased to answer any questions you may have.
The chef is pleased to prepare a vegetarian option for you.
a contract by which a person or company is given the right to use land, a building, a vehicle, etc. for an agreed period of time, usually paying rent for it
We signed a two-year lease for our apartment.
The car lease ends next month.
✦ From Middle English lese, from Anglo-French les (a letting, a lease), from Latin laxāre (to loosen).
to make a legal agreement with someone to give them the right to use a building, land, vehicle, etc. for a period of time in return for payment
The owner decided to lease the store to a coffee shop.
We can lease a car for the trip instead of buying one.
