unhook

[ uhn-hook ]

verb (used with object)

1. to detach by or as if by releasing a hook:

   to unhook a tractor from a trailer.

2. to unfasten or open by undoing a hook or hooks: hook:

   to unhook a door; to unhook a corset.

verb (used without object)

1. to become unhooked.

unhook

/ ʌnˈhʊk /

verb

1. tr to remove (something) from a hook
2. tr to unfasten the hook of (a dress, etc)
3. intr to become unfastened or be capable of unfastening

   the dress wouldn't unhook

Word History and Origins

Origin of unhook¹

First recorded in 1605–15; un- ² + hook ¹

Example Sentences

After Cassavetes died in 1989, at age 59, her son asked his mother to star in a film he was making, 1996’s “Unhook the Stars,” in which she played a middle-aged woman finally free of her family obligations.

From Los Angeles Times

An often unsung actor of quality and consummate talent, Rowlands earned glowing reviews for her film and TV work — which spanned six decades — especially the projects she worked on with her husband — earning Oscar nominations for her leading roles in his acclaimed 1974 drama “A Woman Under the Influence” and the 1980 crime thriller “Gloria” — and two films directed by her son, “Unhook the Stars” and “The Notebook.”

From Los Angeles Times

You have to come to a meeting spot at the border, unhook all your trucks and trailers, bring in another truck to bring it in to the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

He bent down to unhook the dog’s leash.

From Literature

I started going to a 12-step program to unhook myself from him.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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