unattached

Unattached is an adjective describing something not physically connected or joined to something else. It can refer to an object that is not fixed or secured, as well as to ideas of separation or independence. The term derives from attach, with the prefix un- indicating negation.

In social or dating contexts, unattached is used to describe a person who is not in a romantic relationship or not legally married. It can imply availability for a new relationship, though it does not convey any particular status beyond being single or not currently attached to a partner.

In organizational contexts, an unattached person or object is not assigned to a specific unit, team, or attachment. In the military, for example, an unattached service member lacks a current unit assignment. In employment or volunteer settings, unattached staff may be awaiting assignment or working independently.

In information management or data modeling, unattached or unlinked records are those without a defined relationship to a parent or other records. In product design, unattached components may refer to parts not yet integrated into a larger assembly. The term is thus versatile, describing situations where linkage, integration, or commitment is absent.