unlatch

[ uhn-lach ]

verb (used with object)

1. to unfasten (a door, window shutter, etc.) by lifting the latch.

verb (used without object)

1. to become unlatched.

unlatch

/ ʌnˈlætʃ /

verb

1. to open or unfasten or come open or unfastened by the lifting or release of a latch

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlatch¹

First recorded in 1635–45; un- ² + latch

Example Sentences

I made myself walk across the grass to the little house and unlatch the door.

From Literature

The cages were padlocked, a measure to keep the birds from figuring out how to unlatch their enclosures and escape.

From Los Angeles Times

The cages were padlocked, a measure to keep the birds from figuring out how to unlatch their enclosures and escape.

From Los Angeles Times

During the workweek, regulars slide in to occupy one of 10 seats at the bar at Lynn’s Motel on State Route 115 in Effort almost as soon as the doors unlatch at 4 p.m.

From Seattle Times

I remove my helmet and unlatch myself and hurry to his side, unlatching his helmet too.

From Literature

Related Words

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