without

adverb, preposition

1 lacking something, especially something that is basic or necessary: We had to survive without light or heating for a whole month. | can't do without (=unable to live or work without something): We can't do without hot water for too long.

2 not doing or having something, or not showing a particular feeling, especially when it is considered normal or polite: He had gone out without his parents' permission. | without doing: How dare you do such a thing without consulting me? | without so much as... (=used to say that someone does not do something that they should do): Without so much as a word of thanks Bowen turned and went back into the office.

3 not being with someone, or not having them to help you, especially someone you like or need: She found it hard to face up to the prospect of life without Ken.

4 if something happens without something unpleasant happening, it happens in a way that is pleasant or easy: I managed to get through the exam without too much trouble.

5 without wanting to/without wishing to used before a criticism, complaint, or other statement to make it less definite: Without wanting to sound too boastful, I think we have the best television programmes in the world.

6 old use outside