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 of unplug

• open
• clear

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

Owners are advised to use the proper equipment when charging and to unplug when the battery is fully charged. —Jeramie Bizzle, CBS News, 30 Mar. 2026

Many but not all residents have learned to change furnace filters regularly, switch out incandescent lighting for LEDs and unplug unused electronics that otherwise sap power. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026

But unplug your laptop, because of lightning! —Scott Simon, NPR, 21 Mar. 2026

The technology was never fully deployed and was unplugged after three months. —Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for unplug

• debug
• humbug
• prodrug
• antidrug
• mealybug
• multidrug
• chug
• doug
• drug
• dug
• hug
• jug

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)