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

“Obex” also reminds us that the power to be positively emboldened by tech — rather than imprisoned by it — always will be in humans’ hands, so long as we remember that we always can unplug.

From Los Angeles Times

The Bears took advantage of a Green Bay collapse and New England had fits trying to unplug the Chargers.

From The Wall Street Journal

I understand that it’s difficult in today’s digitized world for diners to unplug their devices and lose themselves in the moment.

From The Wall Street Journal

Abandoning a cult is relatively easy compared to unplugging from a hive; although deprogramming can be an arduous process, a hive mind hollows out everything but our skins.

From Salon

I rediscovered both the enchantment and the danger this Christmas when I was forced to unplug my life during days of power outages in Boulder, Colo., where I had gone to stay with family.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• draw
• open
• penetrate
• pump
• utilize