unburden

[ uhn-bur-dn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to free from a burden.
2. to relieve (one's mind, conscience, etc.) by revealing or confessing something.
3. to cast off or get rid of, as a burden or something burdensome; disclose; reveal:

   He unburdened the worries that plagued him.

   Synonyms: confide

unburden

/ ʌnˈbɜːdən /

verb

1. to remove a load or burden from
2. to relieve or make free (one's mind, oneself, etc) of a worry, trouble, etc, by revelation or confession

Word History and Origins

Origin of unburden¹

First recorded in 1530–40; un- ² + burden ¹

Example Sentences

Those who support a more rehabilitative approach have hailed Gascón’s efforts as proof that pursuing a different tack can unburden the criminal justice system and help build lives and communities.

From Los Angeles Times

The predictive technologies that are promising to unburden us of the inconveniences of life are also creating a situation where we are gradually more anxious, not less anxious.

From Los Angeles Times

“It is kind of incredible just how much Danny got these people to talk and unburden themselves with their stories,” says the 45-year-old Nichols, an independent filmmaker born and raised in Little Rock, Ark., acclaimed for a series of dramatic features largely focused on the American South, including “Take Shelter,” “Mud” and “Loving.”

From Los Angeles Times

After clearing the clutter of her personal life, she turned to meditation and micro-dosing psilocybin to unburden her mind.

From BBC

“There’s someone out there who has been carrying this burden for 25 years, and it’s time to let it go and unburden yourself,” Tacoma Detective Julie Dier said.

From Seattle Times