The word "unhinges" is spelled with a silent "h" that is not pronounced. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is [ʌnˈhɪndʒɪz]. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound [ʌ]. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound [ɪ]. The "ng" sound is pronounced as one sound [ŋ]. The final syllable is pronounced with a hard "g" sound and a "z" sound [dʒɪz]. The word "unhinges" means to cause something to come loose or separate from its place.
Unhinges, a verb, is derived from the noun "hinge" and refers to the action of completely dislodging or disrupting something, most commonly a door or a component attached by a hinge. Figuratively, it also encompasses the notion of causing mental or emotional instability, or disturbing the equilibrium of an individual or a situation.
In the literal sense, "unhinges" describes the act of removing a door or detaching it from its hinge, resulting in the separation of the door from its frame or fixture. This can be accomplished intentionally, such as when one is installing a new door, or unintentionally, like when a heavy impact or force causes the hinge to break or give way, leading to the door falling off.
Figuratively, "unhinges" signifies the act of causing a person or a situation to lose stability or balance. It often implies intense disruption, disarray, or disturbing emotional effects. For instance, a traumatic event may unhinge an individual, leading to a loss of mental composure, rationality, or emotional control. In this context, "unhinges" suggests a severe disruption of mental or emotional well-being, to the point where one's capacity to function or respond effectively is significantly impaired.
In summary, "unhinges" refers both to the physical act of detaching or removing a door from its hinge as well as the metaphorical disturbance or destabilization of an individual's mental or emotional state.
The word "unhinges" is derived from the verb "to unhinge". The root of this word is "hinge", which comes from the Old English word "henge", meaning "peg, pivot, or hinge". "Unhinge" is formed by adding the prefix "un" to "hinge", indicating the reversal or negation of the action or state. Therefore, "unhinges" refers to the act of undoing or disrupting the proper functioning of a hinge, or metaphorically, disrupting or destabilizing something.