unplug

verb

un·​plug ˌən-ˈpləg 

unplugged; unplugging; unplugs

transitive verb

1

a

: to take a plug out of

b

: to remove an obstruction from

2

a

: to remove (a plug, such as an electric plug) from a socket or receptacle

b

: to disconnect from an electric circuit by removing a plug

unplug the refrigerator

intransitive verb

: to temporarily refrain from using electronic devices (such as computers or smartphones)

If you go on a summer vacation, how much are you willing to truly unplug? For many of us, it can be hard to put the phone down.

—Ari Shapiro

also : to temporarily withdraw from the responsibilities and obligations of everyday life (such as work or home duties)

Think of yourself as a human being instead of a human doer and make a conscious effort to unplug and recharge.

—Bryan Robinson

Synonyms

• clear
• free
• open
• unclog
• unstop

Examples of unplug in a Sentence

I forgot to unplug my guitar from the amp.

the chimney should work just fine once it is unplugged and cleaned out

Recent Examples on the Web

At Surf Synergy, I was encouraged to unplug, join in, get to know my neighbor, and leave my comfort zone. —Taylor McIntyre, Travel + Leisure, 21 June 2024

The Twisters star recalled a piece of advice McConaughey once gave him about the importance of unplugging from Hollywood. —Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 20 June 2024

Someone had unplugged the fish tank and left Bluez on a little table by the door, possibly overnight, Tanika worried. —Ariane Lange, Sacramento Bee, 13 June 2024

Preheat your car before unplugging it in the morning. —Kinsey Crowley, The Enquirer, 12 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

unplug

verb

un·​plug ˌən-ˈpləg 

ˈən-

1

: to remove (as an electric plug) from a socket or opening

2

: to disconnect from an electric circuit by removing a plug

unplug the television

3

: to temporarily refrain from using electronic devices (as computers or smartphones)