unplug

verb

un·​plug ˌən-ˈpləg How to pronounce unplug (audio)
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

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 Research from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health indicates that unplugging from social media for as little as one week can enhance mental well-being and foster greater social connectedness. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 This book offers tips on unplugging from your devices and being more present. Alexandra Banner, CNN, 1 Feb. 2024 Whether spending time with family and friends, unplugging from technology, or exploring new terrain, camping creates many rich experiences and lasting memories. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 21 Feb. 2024 Safely clean the garbage disposal by first unplugging it and then scrubbing the interior walls with a brush and dish soap. Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 24 Jan. 2024 People choose to unplug from social media Some people are more vulnerable than others to social media’s downsides. Tatum Hunter, Washington Post, 19 Dec. 2023 But because it’s intended for portable use, the manufacturer says it must be turned off and unplugged every 14 days. Kelsey Kunik, Parents, 12 Dec. 2023 After four hours of tense negotiations, the I.C.U. made a ventilator available for the boy by unplugging an older patient and transferring him to an oxygen tank. Adam Rasgon, The New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2023 During the pandemic, many fitness operators simply unplugged their cardio machines, locked their doors and waited it out. Andrea Chang, Los Angeles Times, 11 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unplug.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of unplug was in 1765

Dictionary Entries Near unplug

Cite this Entry

“Unplug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unplug. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

unplug

verb
un·​plug ˌən-ˈpləg How to pronounce unplug (audio)
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)

More from Merriam-Webster on unplug

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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