unhinge

[ uhn-hinj ]

verb (used with object)

, un·hinged, un·hing·ing.

1. to remove (a door or the like) from hinges.
2. to open wide by or as if by removing supporting hinges:

   to unhinge one's jaws.

3. to upset; unbalance; disorient; throw into confusion or turmoil:

   to unhinge the mind.

4. to dislocate or disrupt the normal operation of; unsettle:

   to unhinge plans.

5. to detach or separate from something.
6. to cause to waver or vacillate:

   to unhinge supporters of conservative policies.

unhinge

/ ʌnˈhɪndʒ /

verb

1. to remove (a door, gate, etc) from its hinges
2. to derange or unbalance (a person, his mind, etc)
3. to disrupt or unsettle (a process or state of affairs)
4. usually foll by from to detach or dislodge

Other Words From

• un·hingement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unhinge¹

First recorded in 1605–15; un- ² + hinge

Example Sentences

Losing it does not unhinge Ukraine’s ability to defend critical positions.

From Time

The young entrepreneurial pioneers of the internet once hailed as heroes are now more like addled aging emperors, unhinged by the absolute power that our democracies bestowed upon them.

From Time

I let my belly unhinge and got back in my starting stance in front of my partner.

From The Daily Beast

I know any sort of middle ground will unhinge lefties and righties both, but don't despair.

From The Daily Beast

Her spirit must inevitably be sorely tried during coming events, and very little more might serve to unhinge her mind.

From Project Gutenberg

Doubtless I shall become hardened to the horrors of war in time, my boy; but at present these things unhinge me.

From Project Gutenberg

This spiritualistic faith is mighty pretty on the face of it, but it seems to unhinge people's minds.

From Project Gutenberg

By admitting that the less may rule or sequester themselves from the greater, we unhinge all government.

From Project Gutenberg

These continual cries, and the agitations of the body with which they were attended, naturally unhinge the whole frame.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• fluster
• unbalance