unhook

American  

[uhn-hook] / ʌnˈhʊk /

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.

   to unhook a door; to unhook a corset.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become unhooked.

unhook British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of unhook

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

Example Sentences

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 • Feb. 2, 2024

While trains and trucks also transport EVs, isolating and extinguishing fires is easier as workers can unhook a rail car and a trucker can pull over, said Frazee.

From Reuters • Jul. 27, 2023

It’s likely that you’ll need to unhook your trailer in order to position your truck properly to get it connected to a charging station’s power cord.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 15, 2023

Hector’s good looks certainly helped unhook velvet ropes as a young man.

From New York Times • Jan. 5, 2019

I wheel Sarah up the walk, unbuckle her, set her at the foot of the porch steps, unhook and lift out the grocery bags, fold up the stroller.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood

Related Words

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