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Unpick Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงต
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unpick

[สŒnหˆpษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

removal of stitches

To unpick means to remove stitches from a piece of fabric, usually to correct mistakes or to salvage materials. This process is often used in sewing and knitting when a specific section needs to be altered or when a project needs to be taken apart. It involves careful handling to avoid damaging the fabric. Unpicking is an essential skill for anyone who works with textiles, allowing them to fix errors and improve their craftsmanship.

Synonyms

dismantle, rip out, take apart.

Examples of usage

  • She had to unpick the seams to adjust the dress size.
  • Before starting anew, he decided to unpick the knitted scarf.
  • The seamstress unpicked the stitches to repair the damaged area.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The term is often used in narratives to describe characters unraveling secrets or solving problems.
  • In poetry, 'unpick' can symbolize introspection, where one examines and removes layers of meaning.
  • Stories involving puzzles frequently include moments where characters must unpick clues to find the truth.

Crafting and Textiles

  • 'Unpick' is an essential term in sewing, where crafters must remove stitches to correct mistakes or alter designs.
  • The action often utilizes a tool called a seam ripper, specially designed to make the process easier.
  • In knitting, unpicking can mean pulling apart stitches to fix errors or change a pattern.

Psychology

  • Psychologically, to 'unpick' can refer to the process of analyzing and deconstructing one's thoughts or emotions.
  • Therapy sometimes involves 'unpacking' issues, which is similar to the concept of unpicking a problem.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often encourages individuals to unpick their irrational thoughts to challenge and change them.

Technology

  • In programming, 'unpick' might relate to debugging, where developers need to remove erroneous code.
  • The idea of unpicking algorithms to understand their functioning is vital in software development.
  • Data analysis can also involve 'unpick' methods to break down large datasets into manageable parts for better understanding.

Origin of 'unpick'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'un-' means 'not' or 'to reverse', suggesting the action of going back to a previous state.
  • The root 'pick' comes from the Old English 'piccan', relating to the act of plucking or selecting.
  • The combination of 'un' and 'pick' first appeared in English around the early 20th century, reflecting a modern context.

The word 'unpick' is a compound verb formed from the prefix 'un-' and the verb 'pick.' The prefix 'un-' denotes reversal or negation, while 'pick' comes from Middle English, derived from the Old French 'pucier' meaning to pluck or to pick. The term began to be utilized in the context of textile work in the late 20th century, particularly with the rise of DIY crafting and upcycling trends. The idea of reversing a process by taking something apart drew popularity as sewing and knitting became more prominent not just as necessities, but as hobbies. 'Unpick' reflects a broader cultural movement where repairing and modifying rather than discarding is valued, thus contributing to sustainable practices in fashion and home textile crafts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,734, 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.