# unloaded

/ənˈɫoʊdɪd/ (US) · /ʌnlˈəʊdɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unloaded
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

having had a load or cargo removed. You use this to describe a gun that has no bullets or a truck that is empty after a delivery.

For teachers: having had a burden, cargo, or ammunition removed. Often used predicatively to describe the state of a vehicle or weapon after its contents have been discharged.

## Examples

- The truck is now unloaded and ready for the next trip.
- Always check that the weapon is unloaded before you begin cleaning it to prevent accidents.
- The dockworkers sat on the pier watching the unloaded ship rise higher in the water as the last of the heavy steel containers was swung onto the waiting trailers.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb like 'is' or 'remains'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.