unstop

[ uhn-stop ]

verb (used with object)

, un·stopped, un·stop·ping.

1. to remove the stopper from:

   to unstop a bottle.

2. to free from any obstruction; open:

   to unstop a sewer.

3. to draw out the stops of (an organ).

unstop

/ ʌnˈstɒp /

verb

1. to remove the stop or stopper from
2. to free from any stoppage or obstruction; open
3. to draw out the stops on (an organ)

Word History and Origins

Origin of unstop¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, unstop is from the Middle English word unstoppen. See un- ², stop

Example Sentences

Unstop your ears, and a roar as of St. Lawrence enters: stop your ears, and it is muffled.

From Project Gutenberg

Neither by being touched nor shaken could he be awakened; to effect this, it was necessary to open his eye and unstop his ear.

From Project Gutenberg

Unstop one ear, and observe that the ticking or vibration is heard loudest in the stopped ear.

From Project Gutenberg

She tried by increased tenderness and love to unstop his silent lips and to make him tell what was lying so heavily on his heart.

From Project Gutenberg

They at once began to open their eyes, unstop their ears, and to unloose their tongues.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• expand
• free
• release