# unplug

/ənˈpɫəɡ/ (US) · /ʌnplˈʌɡ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unplug
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to disconnect a device from its power source or from the internet. You do this to save energy or to take a break from technology.

For teachers: to disconnect an electrical device from its power supply or to disconnect from a network or service. Often used in the context of digital detoxes or energy conservation.

## Examples

- I need to unplug my phone to charge it fully.
- After working for eight hours straight, she decided to unplug her laptop and take a walk outside.
- The environmental campaign encourages residents to unplug their idle appliances to reduce standby power consumption and lower their monthly electricity bills.

---

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.