unlimber

¹ American  

[uhn-lim-ber] / ʌnˈlɪm bər /

adjective

1. not limber; inflexible; stiff.

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verb (used with or without object)

1. limber.

unlimber ² American  

[uhn-lim-ber] / ʌnˈlɪm bər /

verb (used with object)

1. to detach (a gun) from its limber or prime mover.

2. to make ready for use or action.

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verb (used without object)

1. to prepare for action.

noun

1. the act of changing a gun from traveling to firing position.

unlimber British  

/ ʌnˈlɪmbə /

verb

1. (tr) to disengage (a gun) from its limber

2. to prepare (something) for use

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Etymology

Origin of unlimber¹

unlimber ¹ ( def. 1 ) un- ¹ + limber ¹; unlimber ¹ ( def. 2 ) un- ² + limber ¹

Origin of unlimber²

First recorded in 1795–1805; un- ² + limber ²

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

unlimber

There is no constitutional duty to unlimber the remedy if it will not solve, or at least help solve, the problem.

From Slate ● Aug. 17, 2026

In it, the English author lays out rules for a strategic version of toy soldiers—the number of moves required “to pass a fordable river,” “to embark into boats,” and “to unlimber guns.”

From Slate ● Sep. 12, 2012

Although Mills was silent, his message was all too loud: the President would have to unlimber his blue pencil.

From Time Magazine Archive

Before Mayor Fieker could unlimber his prepared speach, both Mr, and Mrs Coolidge were safely indoors.

From Time Magazine Archive

He throws her a grateful grin and proceeds to unlimber his conversation works.

From Side-stepping with Shorty by Sewell Ford

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