Decompressing: meaning, definitions and examples

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decompressing

 

[ˌdiː.kəmˈpresɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

data processing

The action of restoring compressed data to its original size or format.

Synonyms

expand, uncompress, unzip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decompressing

Commonly used in a general sense for reducing stress or tension, as well as in computing to mean extracting data from a compressed file.

  • After a long day at work, I like decompressing by reading a book.
  • The software is decompressing the file to access the data.
expand

Commonly used to describe making something larger in size, volume, or scope. It doesn't necessarily relate to compressed data.

  • They plan to expand their business to new markets next year.
  • The file expanded once it was decompressed.
unzip

Primarily used in computing for extracting files from a compressed (zipped) format. It has a more casual tone than 'uncompress.'

  • Can you unzip this folder for me?
  • The tools in this software allow you to easily unzip and organize files.
uncompress

Specifically used in computing when referring to restoring compressed data to its original form. It's a more technical term.

  • Please uncompress the archive to view the documents.
  • The utility will uncompress the files in a few minutes.

Examples of usage

  • After downloading the file, you will need to decompress it before you can view its contents.
  • The software automatically decompresses the files once they are uploaded.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'reverse' and 'compress' which means 'to press together'.
  • It started being used in the mid-20th century, especially in scientific and psychological contexts.

Psychology

  • Mindfulness techniques promote decompressing by encouraging individuals to focus on their breathing and thoughts.
  • Studies show that regular decompression tactics, like meditation, can lower anxiety and improve overall mental health.

Health and Wellness

  • Physical activities like yoga and tai chi are popular decompression methods that combine movement with relaxation.
  • Decompressing after a long day can enhance sleep quality, making it easier to rest.
  • Engaging in hobbies like painting or gardening offers an enjoyable way to decompress and foster creativity.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters decompressing through laughter or bonding experiences after stressful situations.
  • Popular TV shows frequently feature characters going on vacations as a way to decompress from their hectic lives.

Technology

  • In computer science, decompressing refers to unpacking data that has been compacted or compressed for storage.
  • Many software applications use algorithms to help decompress files to give users easy access to their original state.

Translations

Translations of the word "decompressing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 descompressão

🇮🇳 डिकंप्रेसिंग

🇩🇪 Dekompression

🇮🇩 dekompresi

🇺🇦 розпакування

🇵🇱 dekompresja

🇯🇵 解凍

🇫🇷 décompression

🇪🇸 descompresión

🇹🇷 dekompresyon

🇰🇷 압축 해제

🇸🇦 فك الضغط

🇨🇿 dekomprese

🇸🇰 dekompresia

🇨🇳 解压缩

🇸🇮 dekompresija

🇮🇸 afþjöppun

🇰🇿 декомпрессия

🇬🇪 დეკომპრესია

🇦🇿 dekompressiya

🇲🇽 descompresión

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,470, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.