unfetter

[ uhn-fet-er ]

verb (used with object)

1. to release from fetters.
2. to free from restraint; liberate.

unfetter

/ ʌnˈfɛtə /

verb

1. to release from fetters, bonds, etc
2. to release from restraint or inhibition

Word History and Origins

Origin of unfetter¹

First recorded in 1325–75, unfetter is from the Middle English word unfeteren. See un- ², fetter

Example Sentences

His long run delivered only partial victories on his two primary ambitions: to unfetter Japan’s military after decades of postwar pacifism and to jump-start and overhaul its economy.

From New York Times

His long run in office, however, delivered only partial victories on his two primary ambitions: to unfetter Japan’s military after decades of postwar pacifism and to jump-start and overhaul its economy through a program known as Abenomics.

From New York Times

As spring ends, maple trees begin to unfetter winged seeds that flutter and swirl from branches to land gently on the ground.

From Scientific American

Obama’s successor, Donald Trump, formally withdrew the United States from the Paris deal last year, part of a broader strategy to unfetter domestic oil, gas, and coal producers.

From Reuters

The proposed changes are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to unfetter businesses from regulations.

From New York Times

Related Words

• acquit
• clear
• discharge
• dismiss
• extricate
• pardon
• parole
• release
• relieve
• rescue
• save