Unglue

To detach or separate something that has been adhered or fastened together with glue, adhesive, or a similar substance. This often involves overcoming the cohesive forces holding the materials together. The action of ungluing can be literal, referring to physical separation, or figurative, relating to a loosening of bonds or connections between people or things. The process may require force, heat, solvents, or patience, depending on the adhesive and materials involved. Successful ungluing restores the individual components to their original state, or at least allows their independent manipulation.

Unglue meaning with examples

• After soaking the old labels in warm water, I could easily unglue them from the antique bottles. The glue had become brittle, and the labels peeled away effortlessly, revealing the glass beneath. This delicate task was crucial for restoring their original appearance. Each label's careful ungluing preserved them for my scrapbook.
• The pressure from the heavy rain finally managed to unglue the roof tiles, revealing the water-damaged ceiling below. The wind-driven rain forced them apart. After the storm, it was clear that a new roofing job would be needed, involving re-gluing or replacing all the tiles affected. The resulting damage was extensive.
• Years of accumulated arguments began to unglue their relationship. Frequent misunderstandings and harsh words slowly eroded the trust and affection they once shared. Eventually, their emotional bond, so carefully constructed in the beginning, could no longer be repaired. Each argument was an attempt to unglue them.
• To unglue the stamp from the envelope, I carefully applied a warm, moist cloth to its back. The moisture softened the adhesive, and with gentle pressure, the stamp came free. Preservation of its value was important, so it had to be done without damage. The ungluing went perfectly!