Unbar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”“
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unbar

[สŒnหˆbษ‘หr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

removal of barrier

To unbar means to remove a bar or barrier that obstructs access or passage. This term is often used in contexts where a door or gate is barred, implying a restriction that is lifted to allow entry. The action of unbarring signifies opening up access, either literally or figuratively. It is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical scenarios, such as unbarring one's heart to new experiences.

Synonyms

free, open, release, unblock.

Examples of usage

  • He unbarred the door to let the guests in.
  • The town officials decided to unbar the entrance to the park.
  • After much hesitation, she finally unbarred her emotions.
  • They needed to unbar the passage for safety reasons.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural References

  • Literarily, unbar represents freedom and liberation, often found in poetry and stories where characters break free from confinement.
  • In movies, unbar scenes are pivotal moments that symbolize hope or new beginnings, often tied to themes of overcoming hardship.
  • Music often uses 'unbar' metaphorically, speaking to breaking emotional barriers or opening oneself to love and experiences.

Psychology

  • 'Unbarring' can symbolize emotional vulnerability โ€“ opening up to others and allowing oneself to feel and express emotions.
  • Mental barriers can hold people back; 'unbarring' oneโ€™s mind can mean allowing new ideas and perspectives to enter.
  • In therapy, clients are encouraged to 'unbar' their thoughts to explore feelings that may have been locked away.

Architecture

  • In architecture, unbarring often pertains to the removal of barriers in public spaces to promote accessibility and inclusion.
  • Historically, castles had barred gates for security, and unbarring them signified an entrusting of safety, often aligned with hospitality.
  • Modern designs often incorporate features that metaphorically 'unbar' spaces, encouraging open environments.

Origin of 'unbar'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'unbar' originates from Old English, combining 'un-' (meaning 'not') with 'bar' (which refers to a barrier).
  • It reflects the process of reversing something; 'un-' is often a prefix used in many English words to indicate removal.
  • First known uses of 'unbar' date back to the early 15th century, showcasing the long-standing nature of this action in language.

The word 'unbar' originated in the English language around the late 14th century. It is formed from the prefix 'un-', which conveys negation or reversal, and the noun 'bar', derived from Old French 'barre', meaning a rod or barrier. The concept of barring relates to obstructing movement or access, thus 'unbar' represents the act of lifting that obstruction. Historically, the term has been used in various contexts, both physically, such as doors and gates, and metaphorically, in relation to emotional or social barriers. As society evolved, so did the usage of the term, extending into literary devices to describe overcoming obstacles or emotional defenses. The combination of linguistic roots reflects a universal human experience of restriction and the desire for freedom.