Untethered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🚀
Add to dictionary

untethered

[ʌnˈtɛðəd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

space exploration

Not physically connected or restricted by a tether; free to move or operate independently.

Synonyms

free, unleashed, unrestricted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
untethered

This word is often used to describe something or someone that is no longer attached or confined. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

  • The balloon floated away, untethered from its string.
  • She felt untethered after leaving her job and moving to a new city.
unrestricted

Typically used in formal contexts to describe something that has no limits or boundaries. It often applies to permissions, access, or freedom of movement.

  • He had unrestricted access to all parts of the building.
  • The event allows for unrestricted participation.
free

Commonly used to describe a state of not being under control or obligation. It is a broad term that can apply to many situations, including time, emotions, and states of being.

  • After years of hard work, he finally felt free.
  • The bird was set free from its cage.
unleashed

This word usually carries a sense of releasing something powerful or intense, often with dramatic or potentially dangerous consequences. It has a slightly negative connotation.

  • The scientist's discovery unleashed a wave of innovation.
  • When the dog was unleashed, it ran wildly around the park.

Examples of usage

  • The untethered astronaut floated freely in space.
  • The untethered satellite drifted away from the space station.
Context #2 | Adjective

technology

Not tied to a physical connection or cable; wireless.

Synonyms

cordless, unconnected, wireless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
untethered

Typically used to describe something that is free from physical or metaphorical constraints, emphasizing a sense of freedom.

  • After quitting his job, he felt completely untethered and ready to explore the world.
  • The horse roamed the field untethered, enjoying its newfound freedom.
wireless

Refers to technology or communication systems that do not use wires or cables, often in the context of networks and electronics.

  • He just set up a wireless network in his home for all his devices.
  • Wireless charging stations are becoming more popular in public places.
cordless

Commonly used in the context of electronic devices that do not require a physical cable to operate.

  • I need to get a cordless drill for DIY projects around the house.
  • Cordless headphones are very convenient for workouts.
unconnected

Used to describe things or people that are not linked or related in any way, often in a more formal or literal sense.

  • The two crimes were unconnected, occurring in different parts of the city.
  • She felt unconnected to her coworkers because they had different interests.

Examples of usage

  • The untethered headphones allow for greater mobility.
  • The untethered VR headset provides a more immersive experience.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term 'untethered' is often used in technology discussions, particularly in smartphones and electric devices that can operate independently.
  • In literature, it might describe characters seeking freedom from societal norms or constraints, as seen in many coming-of-age stories.
  • A popular music video features an untethered scene that visually represents breaking free from personal struggles.

Psychology

  • Being untethered can imply a sense of liberation, but it may also be associated with anxiety if one feels lost without structure.
  • Therapeutic practices often encourage individuals to explore their untethered feelings in order to find personal direction and purpose.
  • Some studies show that a feeling of being untethered can be liberating, inspiring creativity and innovation in problem-solving.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often become 'untethered' when they break away from tradition, leading to personal discovery or crisis.
  • Modern fiction frequently explores themes of being untethered as protagonists navigate uncharted territories in their lives.
  • Poetry often employs the idea of being untethered as a metaphor for emotional release or spiritual awakening.

Science

  • In aerospace contexts, 'untethered' experiments measure the behavior of vehicles or objects when they are not bound by physical constraints.
  • Space missions sometimes use 'untethered' technology to explore environments without being restricted to one area.
  • Research in physics often examines 'untethered' motion, evaluating how objects behave in the absence of restraints.

Origin of 'untethered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'tether,' which means to tie or bind. The prefix 'un-' suggests the opposite, so 'untethered' literally means 'not tied.'
  • The concept originated from practices of securing animals or objects to prevent them from roaming freely.
  • It has found modern usage in metaphorical contexts, indicating emotional or psychological freedom.

The word 'untethered' originated from the combination of 'un-' prefix meaning 'not' and 'tethered' which comes from Middle English 'tether', meaning a rope or chain used to tie an animal. The concept of being untethered has evolved in modern usage to represent freedom, independence, and lack of physical constraints.


See also: tethers.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,181, 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.