unchain

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ʌnˈtʃeɪn/

KK: /ʌnˈtʃeɪn/

transitive verb

Definition

To free someone or something from chains or restraints.

Example

The kind man decided to unchain the dog that had been tied up for hours.

Tense Forms

Past: unchained

Past Participle: unchained

Conversation

I feel like I need to unchain myself from all this stress.

I totally get that; sometimes it feels overwhelming.

Yeah, maybe I should try meditating to unchain my mind for a bit.

That sounds like a great idea! It could really help you relax.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

release

liberate

free

Antonyms

chain

bind

restrict

Root Explanation

Unchain → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not or opposite of) and "chain" (from Old French *chaîne*, meaning a series of linked metal rings). The word "unchain" means to remove the chains or to free from being chained.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' or 'opposite' ('un-') of being 'linked' ('chain') — that's why unchain means to free from chains.

Visually Confused Words

enchain