uncouple

verb

un·​cou·​ple ˌən-ˈkə-pəl How to pronounce uncouple (audio)
uncoupled; uncoupling; uncouples
Synonyms of uncouplenext

transitive verb

1
: to release (dogs) from a pair of joined collars
2
: detach, disconnect
uncouple railroad cars
uncoupler noun

Examples of uncouple in a Sentence

uncoupled the two railroad cars
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Before installation begins, contractors should evaluate the subfloor and, when necessary, install an uncoupling membrane to absorb movement and help prevent cracking. Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 12 June 2026 According to a 2008 study published in Plant Physiology, two distinct mitochondrial energy-dissipating systems are co-expressed in the skunk cabbage’s florets: alternative oxidase and uncoupling protein (UCP). Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 19 Mar. 2026 After the Space Shuttle Explorer is struck by debris, she's flung into space on the shuttle's arm, forced to uncouple herself or face being pulled even further into the void. Chris McMullen, Space.com, 5 Feb. 2026 As things stand, Senate GOP leadership doesn’t plan to uncouple the DHS bill from the other five government funding bills, which have wide support. Lisa Hagen, Hartford Courant, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for uncouple

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of uncouple was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Uncouple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/uncouple. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

uncouple

verb
un·​cou·​ple ˌən-ˈkəp-əl How to pronounce uncouple (audio)
uncoupled; uncoupling
-ˈkəp-(ə-)liŋ
: disconnect
uncouple railroad cars
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