verb (used with object)
- to take the load from; remove the cargo or freight from: to unload a truck; to unload a cart.
- to remove or discharge (a load, group of people, etc.): to unload passengers.
- to remove the charge from (a firearm).
- to relieve of anything burdensome, oppressive, etc.: He unloaded his responsibilities.
- to get rid of (goods, shares of stock, etc.) by sale in large quantities.
verb (used without object)
- to unload something.
- Informal. to relieve one’s stress by talking, confessing, or the like.
verb
- to remove a load or cargo from (a ship, lorry, etc)
- to discharge (cargo, freight, etc)
- (tr) to relieve of a burden or troubles
- (tr) to give vent to (anxiety, troubles, etc)
- (tr) to get rid of or dispose of (esp surplus goods)
- (tr) to remove the charge of ammunition from (a firearm)
v.1520s, in reference to cargo, from un- (2) + load (v.). Figurative sense (in reference to feelings, etc.) is recorded from 1590s. Related: Unloaded; unloading.