Unhanding: meaning, definitions and examples

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unhanding

 

[ ʌnˈhændɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

action removing

Unhanding refers to the act of releasing or removing one's hands from a grasp on something. This term is often used to describe letting go of an object or withdrawing one's grip as a gesture of surrender or compliance. Unhanding can also suggest the idea of abandoning an action or ceasing to interfere with a situation. This word is not commonly used in everyday language, but it may appear in literary contexts or formal discussions.

Synonyms

abandon, let go, release

Examples of usage

  • He quickly unhanded the document when asked to do so.
  • The soldier was ordered to unhand his weapon.
  • She gently unhanded the child to let him play freely.

Translations

Translations of the word "unhanding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desapego

🇮🇳 हाथ से छोड़ना

🇩🇪 loslassen

🇮🇩 melepaskan

🇺🇦 відпустити

🇵🇱 puścić

🇯🇵 手を放す

🇫🇷 laisser aller

🇪🇸 dejar ir

🇹🇷 bırakmak

🇰🇷 놓다

🇸🇦 ترك

🇨🇿 pustit

🇸🇰 pustiť

🇨🇳 放手

🇸🇮 spustiti

🇮🇸 sleppa

🇰🇿 қолын босату

🇬🇪 გათავისუფლება

🇦🇿 buraxmaq

🇲🇽 dejar ir

Etymology

The term 'unhanding' is derived from the prefix 'un-', which denotes a reversal or negation, combined with the verb 'hand,' meaning to grasp or hold something in one's hand. 'Hand' comes from the Old English word 'hand,' which has remained relatively unchanged over centuries and denotes the physical appendage used for holding or manipulating objects. The prefix 'un-' originates from Old English as well, signifying the opposite or removal of an action. The combination of these two elements creates a word that conveys the idea of taking one's hands off something or letting go. The usage of 'unhanding' likely gained traction in more formal or literary contexts where a precise description of this action was necessary. Its rarity in modern English speaks to the evolution of language and the preference for simpler terms in everyday communication.