Definition

Not fastened or secured with bolts; can also refer to flour that has not been sifted.

Example

The door was left unbolted, allowing the wind to blow it open.

Conversation

Did you see that door? It's unbolted and wide open.

Yeah, I noticed it too. I wonder why it's like that.

Maybe someone forgot to lock it after finishing up.

Could be! We should probably tell someone to secure it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unbolted → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "bolt" (from Old English "bolt", meaning a bar or fastening). The word "unbolted" means not fastened or secured with a bolt.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') 'fastened' ('bolt') — that's why unbolted means it is not secured.

Visually Confused Words