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

Hikes are another way to not only get in some exercise but also to unplug, take a break from the city and surround yourself with nature. —Carolyn Burt, Orange County Register, 11 Nov. 2024

Wellness travel encourages participants to unplug, stimulating meaningful real-world connections and experiences. —Tiffany Layne, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2024

Whether planning a weekly game night with friends or taking a 10-minute walk without your phone, making time to unplug is worth it in the long run. —Discover Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024

Eating wisely at night, unplugging for better sleep, and trusting our bodies are examples of sleep hygiene. —Sophie Okolo, Forbes, 29 Oct. 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)