Definition of the word cast off

The term "cast off" originates from the nautical world. In sailing, "casting off" refers to the action of releasing a mooring line or anchor from a ship or boat. This allows the vessel to be free to sail or move in a different direction. The phrase "casting off" can be traced back to the late 1600s when sailors used the expression "cast anchor" to indicate lowering the anchor into the water. Over time, the phrase "cast off" became more commonly used to describe the opposite action, which is releasing the anchor and avoiding being anchored down. Today, "casting off" is also used as a metaphor in language and literature to refer to letting go of something, such as a burden, responsibility, or a constraint, and moving forward.