unsnap

unsnap

She unsnaps her watchband to take it off.

Definition
  1. Verb:
    • To unfasten or release something that is snapped or held by a snap fastener: "unsnap" means to undo a snap (a type of fastening device, such as a press stud or clasp) by applying force, typically by pulling or pressing.
    • To become unfastened or detached: In an intransitive sense, "unsnap" refers to a snap fastener coming undone on its own or through movement.
Usage Examples

  • Transitive:

    • She carefully unsnapped the clasp on her necklace to avoid breaking it. (She unfastened the snap fastener.)
    • He unsnapped the straps of his backpack to take out a water bottle. (He released the snap fasteners holding the straps.)

  • Intransitive:

    • The button on his coat unsnapped when he bent over. (The snap fastener came undone by itself.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to unsnap something from something": to detach an object by unfastening its snap.

    • She unsnapped the keychain from her belt loop. (She released the keychain by unfastening its snap.)

  • "to unsnap a lid": to open a container with a snap-on lid.

    • He unsnapped the lid of the plastic container to get a snack. (He opened the container by unfastening the snap closure.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Snap (n/v): a fastening device that clicks shut; to fasten or break with a sharp sound.
    • The snap on her purse broke. (The fastener broke.)
  • Snap fastener (n): a type of closure consisting of two interlocking metal or plastic discs.
    • The jacket has snap fasteners instead of buttons.
  • Unsnap is a verb derived from "snap" with the prefix "un-" meaning "reverse the action of."
Synonyms
  • Unfasten: to open or release something that is fastened.
    • Please unfasten your seatbelt before standing.
  • Unclasp: to release a clasp or hook.
    • She unclasped her bracelet and placed it on the table.
  • Undo: to reverse the fastening of something.
    • He undid the buttons on his shirt.
Phrasal Verbs
  • Unsnap off: to remove something by unfastening its snap.
    • He unsnapped off the cover of the remote control to change the battery. (He removed the cover by unfastening the snap.)
Related Idioms
  • Snap out of it: to suddenly stop being in a particular state (not directly related to "unsnap" but shares the root word "snap").
    • She told him to snap out of his depression. (To recover quickly from a mood.)