unlink
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ʌnˈlɪŋk/
KK: /ʌnˈlɪŋk/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become separated or disconnected from something that was previously joined or linked.
Example
The two parts of the chain will unlink if you pull them apart.
Tense Forms
Past: unlinked
Past Participle: unlinked
Conversation
Did you see that the clasp on my necklace broke?
Oh no! I hope it didn’t unlink completely.
Yeah, it just needs a little repair to fix the unlinking.
That’s good to hear! I can help you take it to the jeweler.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
detach
disconnect
separate
Antonyms
attach
connect
join
transitive verb
Definition
To disconnect or separate something that is linked or connected, often by removing a connection or fastener.
Example
She decided to unlink her account from the social media platform.
Tense Forms
Past: unlinked
Past Participle: unlinked
Conversation
Hey, can you help me unlink these chains from the fence?
Sure! It looks like they got all tangled up.
Yeah, I didn’t realize they were so knotted together.
Root Explanation
Unlink → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "link" (from Old English "hlincan", meaning to connect or tie). The word "unlink" means to not connect or to separate connections.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('un-') connecting things ('link') — that's why unlink means to separate connections.
Visually Confused Words
sunblink
unkink
enlink
dunlin
link