From Old English unfealdan, formed from un-, meaning “to reverse an action,” and fold. It first meant opening something folded and was also used figuratively for revealing or explaining.
Open something folded
verb
everyday
neutral
To open or spread out something that has been folded, or to open naturally from a closed shape.
Examples
- She unfolded the map across the kitchen table.
- Please unfold the chair before the guests arrive.
- The bird unfolded its wings and rose into the air.
- Why won't this umbrella unfold properly?
- At sunrise, the petals slowly unfolded.
Similar words
open
spread out
open out
extend
unfurl
unwrap
Develop over time
verb
events
neutral
To develop or become clear gradually as a series of events happens.
Examples
- We watched the rescue unfold live on television.
- The situation unfolded very differently from what we expected.
- As the novel unfolds, the two families discover a shared secret.
- No one could predict how the talks would unfold.
- A quiet friendship unfolded over the course of the summer.
Similar words
develop
progress
evolve
emerge
play out
take shape
Reveal or explain
verb
communication
formal
To reveal, present, or explain a story, plan, or idea gradually, a formal use with a person or work as the subject.
Examples
- The witness unfolded the whole story before the court.
- In the final chapter, the author unfolds her main argument.
- He slowly unfolded his plan to the rest of the team.
- The documentary unfolds the history of the neighborhood through interviews.
- She did not unfold every detail at the first meeting.
Similar words
reveal
explain
present
disclose
set out
relate