Definition

1. Verb (transitive):
   • To remove the fuse from: "unfuse" means to detach or take out the fuse from an explosive device, such as a bomb, shell, or mine, thereby rendering it inactive or safe.

Usage Examples

• (The expert removed the fuse from the explosive device.)
• (They had to remove the fuse to make it safe.)

Advanced Usage

• "unfuse a situation": (rare, figurative) to defuse or calm a tense or dangerous circumstance.
  • The diplomat worked to unfuse the growing conflict between the two nations. (To reduce tension and prevent escalation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Fuse (n/v): a safety device that ignites explosives; or to join together.
• Defuse (v): to remove the fuse from an explosive; also, to make a situation less tense.
• Unfused (adj): not having a fuse; or not joined together.

Synonyms

• Defuse: to remove the fuse from (an explosive).
• Disarm: to remove the triggering mechanism from a weapon.
• Neutralize: to make an explosive device inactive.

Related Idioms

• "Unfuse one's anger": (non-standard) to calm someone's rage.
  • He tried to unfuse his anger by taking deep breaths. (He attempted to calm his anger.)

Notes

• "Unfuse" is a less common variant of "defuse" and is mostly used in technical or military contexts. It is not interchangeable with "defuse" in figurative uses like "defuse a tense situation," where "defuse" is standard.