Unhand
/ˌʌnˈhænd/verb
To stop touching or holding something or someone.
He ordered the man to unhand his daughter instantly.
Often appears as...
- unhand me
- unhand him
Usage tips
Formal
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Archaic Usage
Use 'unhand' mainly in historical or dramatic contexts, as it's considered old-fashioned in modern language.
The knight shouted, 'Unhand her, scoundrel!'
Pro Tip 2/3Authority Figure
'Unhand' often indicates an order; the speaker usually has authority or desperation.
The police officer bellowed, 'Unhand the weapon!'
Pro Tip 3/3Physical Touch
The word is used when someone is physically holding something or someone against will.
The mother cried out, 'Unhand my child at once!'
Compare with
dropfreereleaserelinquish
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