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

• clear
• free
• open
• unclog
• unstop

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

Ignore safety precautions: Always unplug the microwave before cleaning to prevent accidental activation. —Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 26 Mar. 2024

The goal of the family-friendly resort is to unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 8 Mar. 2024

One night under new management, staffers found transmission cables unplugged in the control room. —Lenora Chu, The Christian Science Monitor, 1 Mar. 2024

To encourage participation in the Global Day of Unplugging, UScellular invites individuals to share their commitment to unplugging on their website. —Jennifer "jay" Palumbo, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024

The resort is all about helping visitors unwind and unplug, which is why there are no TVs in bedrooms, but there are complimentary snorkel, kayak, paddle board and boat rentals, as well as a world-class spa. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 6 Dec. 2023

Preheat your car before unplugging it in the morning. —Kinsey Crowley, The Enquirer, 23 Feb. 2024

Research from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health indicates that unplugging from social media for as little as one week can enhance mental well-being and foster greater social connectedness. —Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024

This book offers tips on unplugging from your devices and being more present. —Alexandra Banner, CNN, 1 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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)