Definition

Verb: - To undo or loosen the laces or fastenings of something, typically footwear or a garment. This action involves pulling or untying the cords or strings that hold the item closed or secure.

Usage

The verb "unlace" is used to describe the specific action of opening something by undoing its laces. It is most commonly applied to shoes or boots but can also be used for corsets or other clothing fastened with laces. - After the long hike, he sat down to unlace his muddy boots. - She asked her maid to help unlace her elaborate gown.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: While rare, "unlace" can be used figuratively to mean to unravel, loosen, or undo something that is complex or tightly bound, such as an argument or a mystery.
  • The detective's questions began to unlace the suspect's carefully constructed alibi.

Variants and Related Words

• Unlaced (adjective): Describes something with its laces undone or, more broadly, something that is loose, relaxed, or informal.
  • He walked in with his shoes unlaced.
  • The party had an unlaced, casual atmosphere.

Synonyms

• Untie: To undo a knot or a fastening.
• Undo: To unfasten, untie, or loosen.
• Unfasten: To open or release a fastening.

Antonyms

• Lace (verb): To fasten or tighten with laces.
• Tie: To fasten or secure with a cord or string.

Phrasal Verbs

Note: "Unlace" is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. The action is typically expressed by the single verb.

Related Idioms

Note: There are no common idioms that feature the word "unlace" as the key component.

Verb

1. undo the ties of
   • They untied the prisoner