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Unload Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unload

[ʌnˈloʊd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

shipping

To remove a load or cargo from a vehicle, ship, or aircraft.

Synonyms

discharge, empty, offload.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unload

Typically used when referring to removing cargo or goods from a vehicle, such as a truck, ship, or plane. Can also be used in a more general sense to mean getting rid of something burdensome.

  • They need to unload the crates from the truck.
  • He decided to unload some of his old furniture at the garage sale.
offload

Typically used when referring to transferring an item from one place to another, especially in logistics and business. It might have a slightly technical or business connotation.

  • We need to offload these goods at the warehouse before the end of the day.
  • He offloaded some stocks from his portfolio.
discharge

Often used in a formal context, especially related to discharging duties, responsibilities, or fluids such as liquids or gas in technical or medical fields.

  • The soldier was honorably discharged from the army.
  • The hospital will discharge him after a full recovery.
  • The factory was fined for improperly discharging waste into the river.
empty

Used when referring to completely removing the contents of something, often leaving it vacant. It can be used in both literal and metaphorical senses.

  • Please empty the trash can before you leave.
  • She decided to empty her mind of all thoughts and meditate.

Examples of usage

  • The workers unloaded the truck quickly and efficiently.
  • Please make sure to unload the goods carefully to avoid any damage.
Context #2 | Verb

computing

To remove or install software or data from a computer or device.

Synonyms

delete, remove, uninstall.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unload

Use 'unload' when you are taking items out of something, like a container or vehicle. It is often used in physical contexts.

  • They needed to unload the truck before it could be driven back to the warehouse.
  • He helped unload the groceries from the car.
remove

Use 'remove' when you are taking something away from a place or a position. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • He removed the stain from his shirt.
  • They decided to remove him from the project.
delete

Use 'delete' when you are permanently removing digital content or data, such as files on a computer or messages on a phone.

  • She accidentally deleted the important email.
  • Press this button if you want to delete the document.
uninstall

Use 'uninstall' when you are removing software or an application from a computer or electronic device.

  • I had to uninstall the app because it was causing issues.
  • After you uninstall the program, restart your computer.

Examples of usage

  • I need to unload this program to free up space on my computer.
  • The technician will unload the new update onto your device.
Context #3 | Noun

military

The act of removing ammunition from a gun or weapon.

Synonyms

discharge, eject, extract.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unload

Used when removing items from a vehicle or container, often used in transportation or logistics contexts.

  • They will unload the cargo from the truck at the warehouse.
  • Please help me unload the groceries from the car.
discharge

Typically used in formal or technical contexts involving the release of a substance, liquid, or gas, or when someone leaves a duty or care.

  • The hospital will discharge the patient tomorrow.
  • The factory is responsible for the discharge of waste into the river.
eject

Often used in situations where something is forcibly removed, like from a seat, machine, or place. It can also carry a negative connotation when referring to people being removed.

  • The pilot had to eject from the aircraft before it crashed.
  • The rowdy fan was ejected from the stadium by security.
extract

Used when something is carefully removed or taken out, often used in medical, technical, or detailed manual work contexts.

  • The dentist will extract the infected tooth.
  • They need to extract the essential oil from the plant.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers performed a quick and efficient unload of their weapons.
  • Make sure to perform a safety check before the unload process.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, unloading a weight refers to reducing the load, which can affect stress and strain in materials.
  • Unload mechanisms are vital in automation and robotics, helping to efficiently manage materials in various processes.
  • Airplanes must unload baggage and fuel to maintain optimal performance during takeoff and landing.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, 'unloading' often symbolizes a character relieving emotional burdens, like confessing or letting go.
  • Video games frequently feature 'unloading' items, allowing players to manage inventory and enhance gameplay.
  • The idea of unloading is used in music as a metaphor for releasing stress or pent-up feelings.

Psychology

  • Unloading can refer to the process of sharing thoughts and feelings, which helps in emotional healing.
  • Therapeutic practices often encourage individuals to unload their worries in conversation, leading to cognitive relief.
  • Journaling is a method for unloading thoughts and emotions onto paper, promoting mental clarity.

Literature

  • In literature, unloading themes often explore characters shedding past burdens in their narratives.
  • Many stories feature a pivotal scene where a character unloads secrets, driving plot developments significantly.
  • Poets often use the act of unloading as a metaphor for personal growth and change in their works.

Origin of 'unload'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'to reverse' and 'load' which means something that is carried.
  • In Old English, 'laden' referred to loading or carrying, while 'unladen' was used to denote the act of unloading.
  • The concept of unloading has been around since the 14th century, initially related to ships and carts.

The word 'unload' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of' and the word 'load'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century. The concept of unloading has been essential in various fields such as transportation, computing, and military, where the removal of cargo, data, or ammunition is crucial for operations.

See also: download, downloader, load, loaded, offload, overload, upload.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,665, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.