unmoor

[ uhn-moor ]

verb (used with object)

1. to loose (a vessel) from moorings or anchorage.
2. to bring to the state of riding with a single anchor after being moored by two or more.

verb (used without object)

1. (of a vessel) to become unmoored.

unmoor

/ -ˈmɔː; ʌnˈmʊə /

verb

1. to weigh the anchor or drop the mooring of (a vessel)
2. tr to reduce the mooring of (a vessel) to one anchor

Word History and Origins

Origin of unmoor¹

First recorded in 1490–1500, unmoor is from the Middle English word unmooren. See un- ², moor ²

Example Sentences

He called the former president “delusional,” “completely unmoored. Unhinged.”

From Los Angeles Times

Future shock has left many members of American and global society feeling unmoored and increasingly confused and uncertain about their role in the present.

From Salon

The point is to keep people unmoored from reality, making them easier to manipulate.

From Salon

They want to leave feeling uplifted, not feeling unmoored.

From Los Angeles Times

After 12 years of being in New York City, I felt unmoored.

From Los Angeles Times