unscrew

[ uhn-skroo ]

verb (used with object)

1. to draw or loosen a screw from (a hinge, bracket, etc.).
2. to unfasten or withdraw by turning, as a screw or lid.
3. to open (a jar, bottle, etc.) by turning the lid or cover.

verb (used without object)

1. to permit of being unscrewed.

unscrew

/ ʌnˈskruː /

verb

1. tr to draw or remove a screw from (an object)
2. tr to loosen (a screw, lid, etc) by rotating continuously, usually in an anticlockwise direction
3. intr (esp of an engaged threaded part) to become loosened or separated

   the lid wouldn't unscrew

Word History and Origins

Origin of unscrew¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; un- ² + screw

Example Sentences

“You just have to, like, unscrew it.”

From New York Times

As Alemu helped her young children unscrew parts while she rewired their toys, she hoped they’d take away a much larger lesson about sharing.

From Seattle Times

Take a moment and unscrew the lids of the cumin and chili powder jars, sniff, and see what moves you.

From Washington Times

They are also incredibly intelligent - so smart they have even been caught helping each other unscrew scientific tracking devices - and they have also been known to strike up long-term, meaningful friendships with humans.

From BBC

He can also unscrew his left arm and replace it with a shield, a grappling hook or a flamethrower.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

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