unload
uhn-LOHD
Unload (verb) means to remove cargo or goods from a vehicle, ship, or container. Example: “The crew took two hours to unload the truck.”
verb
1
To remove cargo or goods from a vehicle, ship, or container.
"The crew took two hours to unload the truck."
"Volunteers helped unload boxes of supplies at the shelter."
2
To sell off or get rid of something, often quickly.
"The investor unloaded his shares before the price dropped further."
3
To express or let out pent-up feelings.
"She finally unloaded her frustrations to a close friend."
How to use unload
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo take a load off something — a vehicle, a gun, an emotional burden, or an unwanted asset.
Common pairings
unload cargo
unload a gun
unload stock
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- unloads
- Past tense
- unloaded
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The crew took two hours to _____ the truck.
Etymology
From "un-" + "load."
Related words
Rhymes for unload
See all rhymes for unload →Frequently asked questions
What does “unload” mean?
The word “unload” means to remove cargo or goods from a vehicle, ship, or container. In plain terms, to take a load off something — a vehicle, a gun, an emotional burden, or an unwanted asset.
How do you pronounce “unload”?
“Unload” is pronounced uhn-LOHD (/ʌnˈloʊd/ in IPA).
How do you use “unload” in a sentence?
Here is “unload” used in a sentence: “The crew took two hours to unload the truck.”
What part of speech is “unload”?
“Unload” is a verb.
Is “unload” a common word?
“Unload” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “unload” have?
“Unload” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to remove cargo or goods from a vehicle, ship, or container.
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