unfastened

Unfastened is an adjective describing the state of not being fastened or secured. It can apply to a range of objects, including clothing, closures, containers, fasteners, and mechanical components. When something is unfastened, it is loose, open, or detached rather than firmly fixed.

Etymology: The term is formed by the prefix un- attached to the verb fasten, which means to attach, affix, or secure. The sense of a completed state formed by unfastening is often conveyed with the past participle unfastened.

Common uses: In everyday speech, people describe a seat belt, a jacket, a lid, a door, or a strap as unfastened. In safety contexts, an unfastened guard or unfastened belt can indicate a hazard. The word can also describe non-physical states, such as an unfastened agreement or plan, though this usage is less common and can be metaphorical.

See also: fasten; unfasten; loose; secure.