Unscrew: meaning, definitions and examples

🔧
Add to dictionary

unscrew

 

[ʌnˈskruː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

removal process

To unscrew means to turn a screw in the opposite direction of its intended movement to loosen or remove it. This action is commonly performed to disassemble objects or change components that are fastened by screws.

Synonyms

detach, loosen, remove.

Examples of usage

  • I need to unscrew this panel to access the wiring.
  • He used a screwdriver to unscrew the lid of the container.
  • Please unscrew the light bulb before replacing it.
  • Don't forget to unscrew the back of the watch for battery replacement.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from 'screw', which is believed to derive from the Latin word 'screwa', meaning 'to twist'.
  • The prefix 'un-' means 'to do the opposite', making 'unscrew' literally mean to untwist a screw.

Tools and Mechanics

  • Unscrewing is a common action involved in assembling or disassembling many household items like furniture or toys.
  • Having the right tool, like a screwdriver, is essential for efficiently unscrewing screws without damaging them.

Science

  • Understanding how to unscrew can help in simple engineering and physics projects, teaching about torque and friction.
  • In chemistry, when unscrewing a bottle cap, you can demonstrate the properties of gases, as some contain pressurized vapors.

Art and Design

  • In sculptures or installations, unscrewing parts can reveal hidden elements, encouraging viewers to look deeper.
  • Innovative furniture designs often utilize screw mechanisms for versatility, allowing easy unscrewing for transport or storage.

Cultural References

  • In DIY culture, the phrase 'unscrew it' symbolizes the idea of taking things apart to understand how they work.
  • Many childhood toys involve screws, teaching kids about assembly and disassembly through play.

Translations

Translations of the word "unscrew" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desaparafusar

🇮🇳 खोलना

🇩🇪 abschrauben

🇮🇩 membuka

🇺🇦 відкручувати

🇵🇱 odkręcać

🇯🇵 ねじを外す

🇫🇷 dévisser

🇪🇸 desenroscar

🇹🇷 sökmek

🇰🇷 풀다

🇸🇦 فك

🇨🇿 odšroubovat

🇸🇰 odskrutkovať

🇨🇳 拧开

🇸🇮 odviti

🇮🇸 skruða

🇰🇿 бұрап алу

🇬🇪 შერჭობა

🇦🇿 sökün

🇲🇽 desenroscar

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,208 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.