unlead

The typesetter must unlead the line to reduce the spacing.

Definition

1. Verb:
   • To remove the lead from (something): In printing, "unlead" means to remove the lead spacing or lead type from a printing plate or form.
   • To remove lead from (a container or object): To take out the lead lining or lead content from an item, such as a pipe or a pencil.

Usage Examples

• (To remove the lead spacing from the printing form.)
• (To remove the lead from a pencil.)

Advanced Usage

• Technical context: "Unlead" is primarily used in printing or metallurgy, not in everyday conversation.
  • The technician was trained to unlead the pipes safely to prevent contamination. (To remove lead from pipes.)

Variants and Related Words

• Unleaded (adj): not containing lead; specifically, refers to fuel without lead additives.

  • Most modern cars require unleaded gasoline. (Fuel without lead.)

• Unleading (n): the process of removing lead.

  • Unleading of old paint is necessary before renovation. (The act of removing lead.)

Synonyms

• De-lead: to remove lead from something.
• Strip: to remove a layer or covering, including lead.

Phrasal Verbs

• None common; "unlead" is not typically used in phrasal verb constructions.

Related Idioms

• None; "unlead" is a technical term without idiomatic usage.