unpin

[ uhn-pin ]

verb (used with object)

, un·pinned, un·pin·ning.

1. to remove pins from.
2. to unfasten or loosen by or as if by removing a pin; detach.

unpin

/ ʌnˈpɪn /

verb

1. to remove a pin or pins from
2. to unfasten by removing pins

Word History and Origins

Origin of unpin¹

1300–50; Middle English unpynnen to unbolt; un- ², pin

Example Sentences

She unpinned her hat and rummaged in her jewelry case.

From Literature

Insects, however, present a formidable challenge—each one typically needs to be unpinned to digitize the label underneath it.

From Science Magazine

On a blistering August afternoon, Yusuke Kawai, 42, unpinned the metal netting and gathered the clams in his hands for inspection.

From Los Angeles Times

Vortices tend to stay pinned in this way, but sometimes they can unpin and migrate away from the object.

From Scientific American

“The few people that were trapped, I believe, were probably unpinned,” Martin said.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• alleviate
• break up
• ease
• loose
• relax
• slacken
• undo
• unlock
• unscrew
• untie