unplug

American  

[uhn-pluhg] / ʌnˈplʌg /

verb (used with object)

unplugged, unplugging

1. to remove a plug or stopper from.

2. to free of an obstruction; unclog.

   a pill to unplug clogged arteries.

3. to disconnect (an appliance, a telephone, etc.) by removing its plug from an outlet.

   to unplug a toaster.

4. to remove (an electric plug with its cord) from an outlet.

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verb (used without object)

unplugged, unplugging

1. to become unplugged.

2. to refrain from using digital or electronic devices for a period of time.

   It's a great place to relax and unplug.

unplug British  

/ ʌnˈplʌɡ /

verb

1. to disconnect (an electrical appliance) by taking the plug out of the socket

2. to remove a plug or obstruction from

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Other Word Forms

• unpluggable adjective

Etymology

Origin of unplug

First recorded in 1765–75; un- ² + plug

Example Sentences

Utilities in the Midwest on Saturday directed customers to lower thermostats, unplug “nonessential appliances,” and reduce temperature settings on electric water heaters.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

People in their teens and early 20s are increasingly turning to old school tech in a bid to unplug from the online world.

From BBC • Dec. 6, 2025

Either way, the main point is the same: unplug, tune in to your senses and pay attention.

From Salon • Nov. 18, 2025

But let’s address your actual question, which is: If everyone wants to unplug, why are they still plugged in?

From MarketWatch • Oct. 17, 2025

I’ve seen her do stuff like this before—fix leaky pipes, unplug a clogged sink, or smack a glob of spackle on a hole in the wall.

From "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper

Related Words

• draw
• open
• penetrate
• pump
• utilize