unhand

[ uhn-hand ]

verb (used with object)

1. to take the hand or hands from; release from a grasp; let go:

   Unhand me, you wretched coward!

unhand

/ ʌnˈhænd /

verb

1. archaic.
   tr to release from the grasp

Word History and Origins

Origin of unhand¹

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

Example Sentences

“Oh, I’ll unhand you,” said Bronwyn, and then she picked him up, stuffed him headfirst into the booth, and barred the door shut with his umbrella.

From Literature

"Unhand, please, my lord . . . need your milk, the pain ... the chain, don't, unhand, no . . ." The pink face was beginning to purple when Tyrion let go.

From Literature

The rapid intervention to force Saddam Hussein to unhand Kuwait and its oil was a remarkable show of concerted political will, Mr. Piketty said.

From New York Times

"Were ye told to unhand him, dolts?" he shouted.

From Project Gutenberg

Alive, well, safe!" roared back the minstrel; "unhand me!

From Project Gutenberg