unloose: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowLiterary, Formal, Archaic
Quick answer
What does “unloose” mean?
To release or set free from a constraint, bond, or fastening.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To release or set free from a constraint, bond, or fastening.
To allow something to become less controlled or restrained; to let go of something physically or metaphorically.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The word is equally rare and literary in both varieties.
Connotations
Carries an archaic, poetic, or dramatic tone. May be used for stylistic effect.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both. 'Loosen' or 'release' are vastly more common.
Grammar
How to Use “unloose” in a Sentence
[Subject] unloose [Object] (from [Source])[Subject] unloose [Object] [upon/on Target]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “unloose” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The king commanded them to unloose the prisoners.
- She unloosed her long, plaited hair.
American English
- The senator's speech unloosed a storm of controversy.
- He unloosed the boat from its mooring.
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare, may appear in literary or historical analysis.
Everyday
Extremely rare; 'loosen' or 'undo' would be used instead.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “unloose”
- Using 'unloose' to mean 'tighten' (misinterpreting the prefix).
- Using it in casual speech where 'loosen' is appropriate.
- Spelling as 'unloosen' (redundant).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is largely synonymous with 'loosen' or 'release'. The prefix 'un-' here is an intensifier, not a reverser.
Almost never in modern English. Use 'unloose' only for deliberate literary, poetic, or archaic effect. 'Loosen' is the standard term.
It is considered redundant and non-standard. The correct forms are 'loosen' or the much rarer 'unloose'.
Yes, it is often used metaphorically (e.g., unloose anger, unloose chaos) in literary contexts.
To release or set free from a constraint, bond, or fastening.
Unloose is usually literary, formal, archaic in register.
Unloose: in British English it is pronounced /ʌnˈluːs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ʌnˈluːs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “unloose the dogs of war”
- “unloose a flood of tears”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'UN-tie to let it LOOSE'. The 'un-' doesn't reverse 'loose', it intensifies the act of making something loose.
Conceptual Metaphor
RESTRAINT IS A BOND/CONTAINER; RELEASING IS OPENING/UNDOING (e.g., unloose a flood of emotions).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common modern synonym for 'unloose' in everyday language?