unstop

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʌnˈstɒp/

KK: /ʌnˈstɑp/

transitive verb

Definition

To remove a blockage or stopper from something, allowing it to function or flow freely.

Example

He decided to unstop the drain after it had been clogged for days.

Tense Forms

Past: unstopped

Past Participle: unstopped

Conversation

Hey, can you help me unstop this bottle?

Sure! It looks like the cap is stuck tight.

I didn’t think it would be this difficult to unstop it.

No worries, I have a trick to get it open!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unblock

release

open

Antonyms

block

stop

seal

Root Explanation

Unstop → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "stop" (from Old English "stoppian", meaning to close or block). The word "unstop" means to remove a blockage or to make something flow again.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') blocking something ('stop') — that's why unstop means to remove a blockage.

Visually Confused Words

untop

unshop

unto