unmake

[ uhn-meyk ]

verb (used with object)

, un·made, un·mak·ing.

1. to cause to be as if never made; reduce to the original elements or condition; undo; destroy.
2. to depose from office or authority; demote in rank.
3. to change the essential point of (a book, play, etc.).
4. to alter the opinion of (one's mind).
5. to change or alter the character of.

unmake

/ ʌnˈmeɪk /

verb

1. to undo or destroy
2. to depose from office, rank, or authority
3. to alter the nature of

Derived Forms

• unˈmaker, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unmake¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, unmake is from the Middle English word unmaken. See un- ², make ¹

Example Sentences

Limited in range but emotionally enlightening, the instruction resonantly conjugates the way language makes and unmakes us.

From Los Angeles Times

How do we "unmake the self-made myth," Quart asks.

From Salon

Which is exactly the way that OpenAI, the company that stands to benefit the most from everyone believing its product has the power to remake — or unmake — the world, wants it.

From Los Angeles Times

This year, Hawley said, he was focused on the left's "efforts to unmake history."

From Salon

When Morpheus unmakes the Corinthian, he denounces the aggrieved entitlement of the Collectors telling them, "Until now, you have sustained fantasies in which you are the victims, comforting daydreams in which you are always right."

From Salon

Related Words

• adjourn
• break up
• cancel
• collapse
• demolish
• destroy
• discharge
• dismiss
• overthrow
• postpone
• repeal
• separate
• sever
• suspend
• terminate
• vacate