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

The relatively quiet island is ideal for travelers who truly want to unplug. —Mariette Williams, AFAR Media, 23 Jan. 2025

Before participating in the Green Action League, Garcia never considered unplugging unused appliances or hang-drying clothes, but now she’s taken up these habits as a way of avoiding waste and reducing energy consumption. —Vitas Carosella, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025

Now more than ever, unplugging is the ultimate way to rest. —Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Dec. 2024

Turn off the primary speaker, mute the volume dial, plug headphones into the headphone jack, then turn the speaker back on and quickly unplug and replug headphones a couple of times in a row. —PCMAG, 17 Dec. 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)