unhook

American  

[uhn-hook] / ʌnˈhʊk /

verb (used with object)

1. to detach by or as if by releasing a hook.

   to unhook a tractor from a trailer.

2. to unfasten or open by undoing a hook or hooks: hook.

   to unhook a door; to unhook a corset.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become unhooked.

unhook British  

/ ʌnˈhʊk /

verb

1. (tr) to remove (something) from a hook

2. (tr) to unfasten the hook of (a dress, etc)

3. (intr) to become unfastened or be capable of unfastening

   the dress wouldn't unhook

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Etymology

Origin of unhook

First recorded in 1605–15; un- ² + hook ¹

Example Sentences

You have to come to a meeting spot at the border, unhook all your trucks and trailers, bring in another truck to bring it in to the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2024

While trains and trucks also transport EVs, isolating and extinguishing fires is easier as workers can unhook a rail car and a trucker can pull over, said Frazee.

From Reuters • Jul. 27, 2023

When his grandfather caught a fish, he would unhook it and throw it on the ground, and Roy would snatch it up and quickly stuff it, still wriggling, in the bag.

From New York Times • Jul. 7, 2023

When doctors said it was time, they signed the necessary paperwork allowing the staff to unhook him from the machines.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 14, 2019

Akira worked as quickly as she could to unhook the straps of the pool cover.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz

Related Words

• alleviate
• break up
• ease
• loose
• relax
• slacken
• undo
• unlock
• unscrew
• untie