Dislodge: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when something needs to be forced out of a position it is stuck in, typically with some effort.

• The dentist had to dislodge the food stuck between my teeth.
• The strong wind managed to dislodge the sign from its post.

A general term suitable for taking something away from a place or position without much force or complexity.

• Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
• The mechanic had to remove the engine cover to check for issues.

Often used in situations where something is accidentally or intentionally struck, causing it to become loose or fall off.

• The car's vibration knocked loose the rearview mirror.
• He accidentally knocked loose the painting from the wall while moving furniture.

Applicable when taking apart something that is usually constructed or assembled, often in a systematic manner.

• The engineers were instructed to dismantle the faulty equipment for inspection.
• They started to dismantle the old barn piece by piece.

Used when you want to describe removing something from a fixed position, often with effort.

• He tried to dislodge the rock from the ground.
• The storm dislodged several roof tiles.

Appropriate for describing the act of interrupting or causing anxiety or discomfort. This word can have a negative connotation.

• Please do not disturb me while I am working.
• Loud noises can disturb the residents.

Commonly used to describe causing emotional distress or making someone feel unhappy or uncomfortable. This has a negative connotation.

• The bad news upset him greatly.
• His rude comments upset everyone at the meeting.

Best used when you want to describe making someone feel anxious, uneasy, or unsure. This word can also carry negative connotations.

• The sudden changes in the plan unsettled everyone.
• Her strange behavior unsettled her friends.