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

Once the fridge is unplugged, remove all food and beverage items from the shelves, bins, and compartments. —Taylor Tobin, Southern Living, 1 Jan. 2026

Consumers are turning to nondigital activities for entertainment in an effort to unplug, reclaim their attention spans and find renewed fulfillment in real-life experiences. —Kayla Hayempour, NBC news, 26 Dec. 2025

Instead of just 30 minutes running on battery, his new one can be unplugged for up to 8 hours. —Thomas Evans, NPR, 22 Dec. 2025

The brand’s 12-bedroom boutique residence in Port Ellen is somewhere to eat, drink, and unplug, with kaleidoscopic textiles, richly detailed furnishings, and design that’s pushing the limits of luxury on the island. —Olivia Morelli, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Dec. 2025

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)