Unclog: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'unclog' is a combination of the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not' or 'opposite of', and 'clog', which comes from the Old Norse word 'klǫgur', meaning a 'stopper'. The word 'clog' entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally referring to a type of wooden shoe, which was also used metaphorically to describe anything that obstructs or hinders. Over time, the meaning shifted to describe the act of creating a blockage, particularly in relation to pipes and drains. The prefix 'un-' was added to indicate the action of reversing that blockage, thus forming 'unclog'. This compound verb reflects both the physical act of removing obstruction and a broader context of restoring flow or functionality to a system.

At position #40,751, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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• 40748 emboldening
• 40749 beleaguering
• 40750 inconsequentially
• 40751 unclog
• 40752 dandle
• 40753 tunelessly
• 40754 prudentially
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