Untethered: meaning, definitions and examples

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untethered

 

[ ʌnˈtɛðəd ]

Adjective
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?

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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?

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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

Translations of the word "untethered" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desprendido

🇮🇳 अलग किया हुआ

🇩🇪 losgelöst

🇮🇩 terlepas

🇺🇦 незв'язаний

🇵🇱 niezwiązany

🇯🇵 解き放たれた (tokihanatareta)

🇫🇷 détaché

🇪🇸 desatado

🇹🇷 bağlantısız

🇰🇷 풀린 (pullin)

🇸🇦 غير مقيد

🇨🇿 nezavázaný

🇸🇰 neviazaný

🇨🇳 解脱 (jiětuō)

🇸🇮 nevezan

🇮🇸 óbundinn

🇰🇿 байланыссыз

🇬🇪 გათავისუფლებული

🇦🇿 bağsız

🇲🇽 desatado

Etymology

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.