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

We rinse them by hand and arrange them in the dishwasher, then unload them piece by piece, and tuck each one away with its brothers or sisters.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Monday morning, after a weekend of snowsquall and whiteout conditions, the crew unloaded the cargo.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

At Diamond District Gold Buyers, owner Sandro Ragovski said he has had trouble keeping enough cash in the store to pay out people unloading their gold.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

That’s leaving growers across northern California’s wine country unsure about how they will unload a bountiful harvest of grapes.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The process of unloading the second plant dragged on for four years.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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