unscrew

verb

un·​screw ˌən-ˈskrü 

unscrewed; unscrewing; unscrews

transitive verb

1

: to draw the screws from

2

: to loosen or withdraw by turning

intransitive verb

: to become or admit of being unscrewed

The lid unscrews easily.

Examples of unscrew in a Sentence

I unscrewed the jar lid.

You'll need to unscrew the cover before you remove it.

Recent Examples on the Web

That enables robots to perform tasks like sealing a Ziploc, tying a trash bag, or unscrewing a lightbulb. — Emma Roth, The Verge, 30 July 2026

Those charges stem from Vick allegedly breaking into a former girlfriend’s home, and he is accused of stealing multiple electronic devices, as well as unscrewing the camera that had been located on the porch of her home. — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 13 July 2026

Then, find the coils—usually located at the back of the appliance—behind a grill or panel, then unscrew the panel. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 6 July 2026

By unscrewing any bulb, the consumer can hook a line directly off that. — William Jones, USA Today, 15 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for unscrew

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup
• bijou

Kids Definition

unscrew

verb

un·​screw ˌən-ˈskrü 

ˈən-

1

: to remove the screws from

2

: to loosen or withdraw by turning

unscrew a lightbulb