unplug

[ uhn-pluhg ]

verb (used with object)

, un·plugged, un·plug·ging.

1. to remove a plug or stopper from.
2. to free of an obstruction; unclog:

   a pill to unplug clogged arteries.

3. to disconnect (an appliance, a telephone, etc.) by removing its plug from an outlet:

   to unplug a toaster.

4. to remove (an electric plug with its cord) from an outlet.

verb (used without object)

, un·plugged, un·plug·ging.

1. to become unplugged.
2. to refrain from using digital or electronic devices for a period of time:

   It's a great place to relax and unplug.

unplug

/ ʌnˈplʌɡ /

verb

1. to disconnect (an electrical appliance) by taking the plug out of the socket
2. to remove a plug or obstruction from

Other Words From

• un·plugga·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of unplug¹

First recorded in 1765–75; un- ² + plug

Example Sentences

“When I see people going through it in the beginning, like they’ve just been unplugged in ‘The Matrix,’ you know they can’t avoid this pain.

From Los Angeles Times

This was Rivers unplugged, foul-mouthed in a way that made me feel like a squeamish altar boy.

From Los Angeles Times

Over my career, both the travel writing industry and publication budgets in general have deflated like an unplugged bouncy house.

From Salon

There was so much noise rattling around in Betts’ head and he was feeling so much negative energy from Dodgers fans and the media that he decided to unplug from the outside world.

From Los Angeles Times

I unplugged appliances, cursed SoCalGas, turned off the faucet to save water, started a garden, grew trees from seeds and sprouts, and cleaned up garbage wherever I could.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• draw
• open
• penetrate
• pump
• utilize