Pronunciation: [ʌnjˈə͡ʊk] (IPA) 
The word "unyoke" is spelled with a "y" instead of an "i" because it is derived from the Old English word "geoc" which was pronounced with a "y" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "unyoke" is /ʌnˈjoʊk/, where the stress is on the second syllable. The "u" sound is pronounced like the "u" in "but" and the "o" sound is pronounced like the "o" in "go." The "e" at the end of the word is silent.
The term "unyoke" is a verb that originated from Old English, and it is used to describe the act of disconnecting or removing a yoke, specifically from a team of animals. A yoke refers to a wooden frame or rod that is placed across the necks of two animals, usually oxen, to join them together for the purpose of pulling a plow or other heavy loads.
In a literal sense, "unyoking" entails the separation of these animals by removing the yoke that holds them together. It could involve untethering the straps or unfastening the device that keeps the yoke in place. This process enables each animal to regain its freedom, releasing them from their shared burden or work.
However, beyond its literal meaning, "unyoke" can also be understood figuratively. It can describe the act of freeing oneself or others from oppressive or burdensome situations, obligations, or responsibilities. It may involve breaking away from restrictive relationships, freeing oneself from excessive workload, or liberating one's mind from the chains of negative thoughts or mental constraints.
Ultimately, "unyoke" represents the act of releasing, separating, or liberating, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense, to restore autonomy, independence, or mental well-being.
To loose from; to disjoin; to free from a yoke.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unyoke" has its roots in Old English. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word "ūneocian", which is composed of the prefix "ūn-" meaning "not" or "away", and "eocian", meaning "to yoke" or "to join together". Over time, "ūneocian" evolved into "unyoken" in Middle English, eventually becoming the modern word "unyoke". The word essentially means to disengage or detach from a yoke, which is a wooden crosspiece traditionally used to connect a pair of oxen or horses and allow them to pull together. In a figurative sense, "unyoke" can also mean to release or free oneself from a burden, obligation, or constraint.
