unfix
Release from fastening
To unfix is to loosen, detach, or unsettle something that was fixed in place.
You might unfix a bolt, unfix a bayonet from a rifle, or unfix someone's gaze.
The word extends to abstract contexts: new evidence can unfix previously settled assumptions.
The revelation unfixed everything she thought she knew about her family.
To set apart
- disconnectTo break a connection
- disengageBreak free from attachment
- unhookRelease from a curved fastener
- unfastenRelease from attachment
remove · extract · disjoin · unclip · unbolt · uncouple · unpin · unstick
Slide a bar open
- unzipOpen toothed fastener
- unbuttonRelease a fastener
- unbuckleRelease a fastener
- unclaspOpen a hinged fastener
unhinge · unlatch · unclip · unhitch · unclamp · unstitch · unlace · unpeg
Without payment or restriction
- unchainRemove restraining links
- unshackleRemove bonds from
- unfetterRemove restraints from
- extricateFree from entanglement
disenthrall · emancipate · release · unbind · untether · loose · unloose · let go
Become less taut
separate
To set apart
- disconnectTo break a connection
- disengageBreak free from attachment
- unhookRelease from a curved fastener
unfasten · remove · extract · disjoin · unclip · unbolt · uncouple · unpin · unstick · unhitch
unbolt
Slide a bar open
unclasp · unhinge · unlatch · unclip · unhitch · unclamp · unstitch · unlace · unpeg · unchain
free
Without payment or restriction
extricate · disenthrall · emancipate · release · unbind · untether · loose · unloose · let go · set free
slacken
Become less taut
unstick · free · soften · give · slack · unjam · unstop · unblock
undo
Reverse a prior action
correct · rectify · change back · annul · negate · cancel · rescind · invalidate · nullify · counteract