unload

[uhn-lohd]

verb (used with object)

1. to take the load from; remove the cargo or freight from.

   to unload a truck; to unload a cart.

2. to remove or discharge (a load, group of people, etc.).

   to unload passengers.

3. to remove the charge from (a firearm).

4. to relieve of anything burdensome, oppressive, etc..

   He unloaded his responsibilities.

5. to get rid of (goods, shares of stock, etc.) by sale in large quantities.

verb (used without object)

1. to unload something.

2. Informal.,  to relieve one's stress by talking, confessing, or the like.

unload

/ ʌnˈləʊd /

verb

1. to remove a load or cargo from (a ship, lorry, etc)

2. to discharge (cargo, freight, etc)

3. (tr) to relieve of a burden or troubles

4. (tr) to give vent to (anxiety, troubles, etc)

5. (tr) to get rid of or dispose of (esp surplus goods)

6. (tr) to remove the charge of ammunition from (a firearm)

Other Word Forms

• unloader noun
• self-unloading adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of unload¹

First recorded in 1515–25; un- ² + load

Example Sentences

Play at Dawson Memorial Field in Danbury, Essex, was suspended over summer after a passer-by was struck on the leg by a ball as he unloaded his car on 17 May.

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He found one and unloaded his grievances on her.

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A few minutes away from Kassie's home, Andrew is back at his warehouse using a forklift truck to unload more rolls of carpet from a delivery van.

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On Monday, the Israeli foreign ministry alleged that the flotilla was "organised by Hamas", and called on its boats to unload their aid supplies at the port of Ashkelon for transfer to Gaza.

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Normally arrival in a new port means loading and unloading cargo, shore leave, and ordering provisions.

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Related Words

• clear out 
• discharge 
• disgorge 
• dump 
• get rid of 
• jettison 
• off-load 
• remove 
• unpack