General:
* To escape through an opening or crack: This is the most common meaning. For example, "The water tank is leaking," or "The secret documents leaked to the press."
* To reveal confidential information: This is closely related to the first meaning, but specifically refers to the release of information that is not meant to be public. For example, "The government leaked classified information to the media," or "The company leaked details of its new product to its competitors."
* To become known or publicized: This is used when information is made public unexpectedly, often without the knowledge or consent of those involved. For example, "The news of the merger leaked out before it was officially announced," or "The rumor leaked out that she was quitting her job."
Specific uses:
* In technology: A program or system can be said to "leak" memory if it fails to release memory it no longer needs, leading to performance issues.
* In medicine: A fluid can be said to "leak" from a body part, indicating a possible injury or medical condition.
Informal usage:
* To tell or disclose information casually: For example, "He leaked that he's going to quit his job."
The specific meaning of "leak" will be clear from the context in which it is used.