Unbuckle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unbuckle

[ʌnˈbʌkəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

safety belt

To unbuckle means to release or undo a buckle, typically on a seatbelt or strap. This action is often performed when a person is ready to exit a vehicle or when they no longer need to be secured by the belt. Unbuckling is usually a quick and simple action that provides relief from restraint. It is commonly associated with safety equipment used in cars, planes, or other transport means.

Synonyms

detach, disconnect, release.

Examples of usage

  • Please unbuckle your seatbelt before getting out.
  • She quickly unbuckled the harness on her child.
  • He remembered to unbuckle his belt after the flight was over.

Translations

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Origin of 'unbuckle'

The word 'unbuckle' is a compound word formed by adding the prefix 'un-' to 'buckle'. The prefix 'un-' originates from Old English, meaning 'not' or 'the opposite of'. The term 'buckle' comes from the Middle English 'bokel', which traces its roots back to the Latin word 'buccula', meaning 'cheek strap' or 'jaw'. The combination of these two elements reflects the action of reversing the fastening mechanism associated with a buckle. The usage of 'unbuckle' has been prominent in English since the mid-20th century, especially with the increased focus on safety in transport, where the importance of seatbelts became widely recognized.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,573, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.