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

Instead, the complaint alleges, he unhooked her bra, squeezed her breasts and told her, “You have perfect breasts. Does your husband tell you that?”

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

Mom unhooked her seat belt and scrambled into the backseat.

From Literature

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

Related Words

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