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Unfold Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unfold

[ʌnˈfoʊld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to open or spread out from a folded position

Unfold means to open or spread out something that has been folded, such as a piece of paper or a map. It can also refer to revealing or disclosing information or a story that was previously unknown.

Synonyms

disclose, open, reveal, spread out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unfold

Used when describing the gradual revealing of something, often a story or an event.

  • As the movie progressed, the thrilling plot began to unfold
  • The events of that night will slowly unfold as more witnesses come forward
open

Commonly used when describing the action of making something accessible or available, like a door, book, or opportunity.

  • Please open the window to let some fresh air in
  • He was excited to open the package that arrived
spread out

Used when describing the action of extending or distributing something over a wide area.

  • They decided to spread out the picnic blanket in the park
  • The soldiers spread out to cover more ground
reveal

Typically used when unveiling something previously hidden or unknown, often with an element of surprise.

  • The magician will reveal his secrets at the end of the show
  • She couldn't wait to reveal the big news to her family
disclose

Often used in formal or legal contexts when something secret or confidential is revealed.

  • The company was required to disclose its financial records
  • She refused to disclose the source of her information

Examples of usage

  • The teacher asked the students to unfold their homework assignments.
  • As the detective continued to investigate, the mystery began to unfold.
  • She unfolded the letter and read its contents.
Context #2 | Verb

to develop or become clear and understandable

Unfold can also mean to develop or become clear and understandable over time. It is often used to describe how events or situations gradually reveal themselves.

Synonyms

develop, emerge, reveal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unfold

Use this when describing a process that gradually becomes clear or happens step by step.

  • The mystery began to unfold slowly.
  • As the story unfolded, we learned more about the characters.
develop

Useful for discussing growth, progress, or evolution over time in various contexts like projects, skills, or illnesses.

  • He developed a deep understanding of the subject.
  • The team is developing a new software application.
reveal

Appropriate when talking about making something previously hidden known to others, often suddenly or surprisingly.

  • The magician revealed his secret.
  • She revealed her true feelings.
emerge

Best for situations where something becomes visible or known after being hidden or unknown.

  • A new leader emerged from the shadows.
  • The truth will eventually emerge.

Examples of usage

  • The plot of the movie slowly began to unfold, keeping the audience in suspense.
  • Through her research, she was able to unfold the truth behind the mysterious disappearance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In poetry, the act of unfolding can symbolize the gradual revelation of emotions or thoughts.
  • Many authors use unfolding stories as a narrative device, gradually revealing plot twists and character motives.
  • In drama, a scene may unfold in a way that captivates the audience, making them eager to see what happens next.

Psychology

  • The metaphor of unfolding is often used in therapy, representing personal growth or insight as a journey from confusion to clarity.
  • Cognitive processes can be seen as unfolding, where thoughts and ideas become clearer and more structured over time.
  • Unfolding of memories can occur when individuals begin to recall past events in therapy sessions, leading to deeper understanding.

Art

  • Artists often use the concept of unfolding in visual art; layers of paint reveal hidden images beneath.
  • Pop-up books rely heavily on the concept of unfolding, creating a 3D experience from flat pages.
  • Choreography can be seen as unfolding movements that tell a story or convey emotions through the body.

Science

  • The unfolding of proteins is a crucial aspect in biology, determining how they function.
  • In physics, certain processes are described as unfolding in time, showcasing how systems evolve.
  • Astronomy studies the unfolding of the universe, examining how galaxies and stars evolve over billions of years.

Origin of 'unfold'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'unfaldan', where 'un-' means not, and 'faldan' means to fold.
  • The concept of 'unfolding' was often used metaphorically in literature to describe gaining knowledge or understanding.
  • In Middle English, the term was used more in textile contexts, relating to opening fabric.

The word 'unfold' originated from the Old English word 'unfealdan', which means to open or unwrap. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe the action of opening or spreading out something that has been folded. Over time, 'unfold' has also come to symbolize the process of revealing or developing something gradually, adding depth and complexity to its meaning.

See also: bifold, fold, foldable, folder, folding.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,281, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.