unstring

American  

[uhn-string] / ʌnˈstrɪŋ /

verb (used with object)

unstrung, unstringing

1. to deprive of strings.

   to unstring a violin.

2. to take from a string.

   to unstring beads.

3. to loosen the strings of.

   to unstring a bow.

4. to relax the tension of.

5. to relax unduly, or weaken (the nerves).

6. to weaken the nerves of.

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unstring British  

/ ʌnˈstrɪŋ /

verb

1. to remove the strings of

2. (of beads, pearls, etc) to remove or take from a string

3. to weaken or enfeeble emotionally (a person or his nerves)

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Etymology

Origin of unstring

First recorded in 1605–15; un- ² + string

Example Sentences

That alone would’ve been enough for me to unstring my racquets and call it a career. 

From Newsweek • Jun. 21, 2011

The scene is one to strike dumb with awe, or to unstring the nerves; one might stand in silent astonishment, another would burst into tears.

From Our Italy by Warner, Charles Dudley

Away then to loosen, to unstring the divine bow, so tense, so long.

From Complete Prose Works Specimen Days and Collect, November Boughs and Goodbye My Fancy by Whitman, Walt

I resolutely put aside the thought of Juanita—of any personal feeling which might mar my judgment and unstring my nerves at this supreme and dreadful moment.

From The City in the Clouds by Gull, C. Ranger

Mr. Snobbe requests all persons having nerves to be unstrung to unstring them now.

From The Dreamers A Club by Bangs, John Kendrick

Related Words

• disturb
• frighten
• horrify
• intimidate
• rattle
• throw
• undermine
• unnerve
• unsettle
• upset
• weaken
• worry