unbind

Unbind is a verb meaning to release from a binding or constraint, or to detach. It is formed from the prefix un- plus bind, and its use spans everyday language as well as technical domains. The term can denote physical release as well as detaching abstract ties.

In everyday English, unbind describes removing something that is tied or held together, such as unbinding a parcel, loosening straps, or freeing a bound object. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate liberation from obligations or constraints.

In science, unbinding refers to the dissociation of a bound complex. A ligand unbinds from a receptor, a substrate unbinds from an enzyme, or a protein–protein complex dissociates. Unbinding kinetics are described by a dissociation rate constant (k-off) and, at equilibrium, by the dissociation constant (K_d). Some systems exhibit force-dependent unbinding, where applied mechanical force increases the unbinding rate, a concept used in dynamic force spectroscopy and Bell-like models.

In computing and information technology, unbind describes removing a binding between entities. This can mean detaching a name from a value in a programming environment, unbinding an event handler in a user interface, or unbinding a network socket from a port to free the port for other processes. In data-binding frameworks, unbinding disables live synchronization between UI elements and data sources.

Related terms include binding, dissociation, and unbinding energy.