release the hounds, To set something in motion, often used humorously to mean starting an action or pursuit.
release one's grip, To let go of something physically or metaphorically, often implying a sense of control or tension being eased.
Word Origin
Language
Old French
Original word
reles
Word parts
re- (again) + les (let go)
Originally meant
to let go again
Background
The word 'release' comes from Old French 'reles', which means to let go again. It entered English in the Middle Ages and has been used to describe freeing someone or something from restraint.