unhinge

verb

un·​hinge ˌən-ˈhinj 

unhinged; unhinging; unhinges

transitive verb

1

: to make unstable : unsettle, disrupt

unhinge the balance of world peace

pressure that would unhinge a less experienced person

2

: to remove from the hinges

unhinge a door

Synonyms of unhinge

• disturb
• distract
• unsettle
• bother
• derange
• unbalance
• confuse
• frenzy
• upset
• annoy

Examples of unhinge in a Sentence

the endless harassment by the guards completely unhinged the prisoners of war

I was momentarily unhinged by the unexpected question.

Recent Examples on the Web

Fortunately, Send Help gloriously showcases Raimi’s love for twisted comedy, unhinged action and copious amounts of blood. —David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 26 Jan. 2026

That usually happens when an actor appears overly controlled or insufficiently guided—either sealed tight or unhinged. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 22 Jan. 2026

The provocative, genre-defying horror flick boasts unhinged gore, a delightfully dark sense of humor, Madigan as the creepiest aunt ever, and a crowd-pleasing finale. —Brian Truitt, USA Today, 22 Jan. 2026

The message is strong for a real world that is increasingly unhinged in so many ways. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for unhinge

• impinge
• infringe
• syringe
• binge
• cringe
• fringe
• hinge
• singe
• tinge
• twinge

Kids Definition

unhinge

verb

un·​hinge ˌən-ˈhinj 

1

: unsettle sense 2, disrupt

a mind unhinged by grief

2

: to remove (as a door) from the hinges