Unhinge is spelled with two syllables: "un-" and "hinge." The first syllable "un-" is pronounced as /ʌn/ and it means "not." The second syllable "hinge" is pronounced as /hɪndʒ/ and it means "to detach or separate." Therefore, unhinge means to detach or separate from a mental or emotional state. This word is commonly used in the context of mental health or emotional stability. It is important to spell unhinge correctly to convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion.
Unhinge is a transitive verb that refers to the act of causing someone to lose control mentally or emotionally, or to destabilize or disorient something. It involves an action or event that disrupts one's rationality or stability, often leading to a breakdown or disturbance in mental or emotional state.
In the context of a person, unhinging describes a situation where an individual becomes mentally or emotionally unstable, losing their grip on reality, sanity, or composure. This can manifest in various ways, such as erratic behavior, extreme mood swings, confusion, or even a complete mental breakdown. It implies a state of vulnerability or susceptibility to mental disorders or psychological distress.
When applied to situations or objects, unhinging signifies the act of causing destabilization or destruction. It can indicate the breakage or dislodging of hinges, leading to the collapse or impairment of a physical structure or mechanism. By extension, it can also refer to figurative situations or systems that become disrupted or thrown into chaos, jeopardizing stability or functionality.
Overall, the term unhinge encapsulates a sense of loss of control, stability, or rationality, whether in reference to an individual's mental state or the disruption of a structure or system. It conveys a notion of disturbance or alteration that can deeply affect someone's psychological well-being or the functioning of various elements.
To take from the hinges; to unfix; to loosen; to unsettle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unhinge" has its origins in the late 16th century and comes from the combination of the prefix "un-" (meaning "not" or "opposite of") and the noun "hinge". The noun "hinge" originated from the Old English word "henge", which referred to a type of pivoting joint used in doors and gates. Over time, the verb "unhinge" emerged to describe the action of removing or dislodging something from its hinge, both in a literal and figurative sense. In a figurative context, "unhinge" refers to disturbing or destabilizing someone mentally or emotionally, suggesting a loss of stability or balance.