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

Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electronics, including pool equipment, and set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest temperatures to keep food fresh and frozen for as long as possible after a hurricane. —Cbs Miami Team, CBS News, 4 June 2026

Hair dryers and hot hair tools should be unplugged after use to prevent fire risks, electric shocks, and energy waste. —Emily Williams, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2026

Even simple habits like taking walks outside, spending time with friends, or unplugging from work periodically may help buffer chronic stress. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 2 June 2026

Just make sure to put away your phone and pull out a good book, because this place is tailor-made for unplugging. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 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)