Definition of "off the hook" [off the hook]

• Relieved of a duty, burden, responsibility, or pressure. (adjective)
• Performing extraordinarily well. (adjective)
• Of a telephone, having an open connection; not hung up. (adjective)

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• "With runners on first and third with one out in both frames, Nick Swisher and Melky Cabrera let Weaver off the hook by not coming through."
• "Kevin McNulty of Newark agrees: A phone can be on the hook, but it must be off the hook to be used."