unmake

[ uhn-meyk ]

verb (used with object)

, un·made, un·mak·ing.

1. to cause to be as if never made; reduce to the original elements or condition; undo; destroy.
2. to depose from office or authority; demote in rank.
3. to change the essential point of (a book, play, etc.).
4. to alter the opinion of (one's mind).
5. to change or alter the character of.

unmake

/ ʌnˈmeɪk /

verb

1. to undo or destroy
2. to depose from office, rank, or authority
3. to alter the nature of

Derived Forms

• unˈmaker, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unmake¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, unmake is from the Middle English word unmaken. See un- ², make ¹

Example Sentences

The economic meltdown that made him now threatens to unmake him.

From The Daily Beast

He knew well enough that this event would make or unmake him in Pontiac.

From Project Gutenberg

You could make things happen on Crimson, but you couldn't unmake them.

From Project Gutenberg

Evidence made her a Christian—stronger evidence on the side of her former faith can alone unmake her.'

From Project Gutenberg

Then he suddenly left off writing, and I drew the conclusion that it is as easy to unmake friends as to make them.

From Project Gutenberg

His lips press and his arms enfold not her so much as the ideal of her, and unless she unmake herself, he cannot unlove her.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• adjourn
• break up
• cancel
• collapse
• demolish
• destroy
• discharge
• dismiss
• overthrow
• postpone
• repeal
• separate
• sever
• suspend
• terminate
• vacate