The locomotive let off some steam after it came to a halt.
•With a great hiss, it let off steam and frightened the children.
2. Fig. to work or play off excess energy. •Those boys need to get out and let off some steam.
•Go out and let off steam!
3. Fig. to release one's pent-up emotions, such as anger, usually verbally. •I'm sorry I yelled at you. I guess I needed to let off some steam.
•She's not that mad. She's just letting off steam.