verb

unhand

uhn-HAND

Unhand (verb) means to let go of someone or something held in the hand or grip. Example: “Unhand me at once!" she cried, pulling away from his grip.”

verb

To let go of someone or something held in the hand or grip.

""Unhand me at once!" she cried, pulling away from his grip."

How to use unhand

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo release your grip on someone or something.

When to use it

Sounds old-fashioned or theatrical in modern English — mostly used humorously or in dramatic/historical writing, as in "unhand me, villain!"

Word forms

unhanded past tense, unhands singular

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Can you complete this real example?

"_____ me at once!" she cried, pulling away from his grip.

Etymology

From un- + hand.

Frequently asked questions

What does “unhand” mean?

The word “unhand” means to let go of someone or something held in the hand or grip. In plain terms, to release your grip on someone or something.

How do you pronounce “unhand”?

“Unhand” is pronounced uhn-HAND (/ʌnˈhænd/ in IPA).

How do you use “unhand” in a sentence?

Here is “unhand” used in a sentence: “"Unhand me at once!" she cried, pulling away from his grip.”

What part of speech is “unhand”?

“Unhand” is a verb.