Definition

To get ready for action or to prepare equipment for use.

Example

The soldiers began to unlimber their artillery before the battle.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Are you ready to unlimber the equipment for the game?

Yeah, I just need a few minutes to get everything set up.

Alright, let me know when you're ready to start so we can get going.

I will! It shouldn’t take long to unlimber everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To prepare or set something up for use, especially by detaching it from a support or transport.

Example

The soldiers worked quickly to unlimber the artillery before the battle began.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they unlimber the cannon for the demonstration?

Yeah, it was impressive to watch them get it ready so quickly.

I didn't realize it took so much coordination to unlimber it properly.

Root Explanation

Unlimber → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "limber" (from Middle English "limber", meaning flexible or pliable). The word "unlimber" means to make something not flexible or to remove the constraints that limit movement.

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'not flexible' ('un-') — that's why unlimber means to free something from its constraints.

Visually Confused Words