unbuckle

American  

[uhn-buhk-uhl] / ʌnˈbʌk əl /

verb (used without object)

unbuckled, unbuckling

1. to unfasten the buckle or buckles of.

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verb (used without object)

unbuckled, unbuckling

1. to undo a buckle.

Etymology

Origin of unbuckle

First recorded in 1350–1400, unbuckle is from the Middle English word unboclen. See un- ², buckle

Explanation

To unbuckle is to release a belt or clasp — to unfasten. You're going to have to unbuckle your seat belt before you get out of the car. The verb unbuckle adds the prefix un- (""reverse of") to buckle, which stems from the Latin word buccula, "cheek strap of a helmet." So just as you buckle your helmet before you jump on your bike, you unbuckle it once you arrive at your friend's house.

Example Sentences

Unbuckle your swords, throw them on the ground, and dismount.

From Mr. Fortescue An Andean Romance by Westall, William

"Unbuckle your belt, Sir Roland," she said, "And set you safely down."

From English and Scottish Ballads, Volume I (of 8) by Various

Unbuckle the strap before you move the bar, as otherwise it might fall and I should have difficulty in handing it to you again.

From St. George for England by Henty, G. A. (George Alfred)

Unbuckle, un-buk′l, v.t. to loose from buckles: to unfasten.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 4 of 4: S-Z and supplements) by Various

Unbuckle your sword, and place your pistols on the table.

From My Sword's My Fortune A Story of Old France by Hayens, Herbert