Unfolded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unfolded
[สnหfoสldษชd ]
Definitions
physical action
Unfolded refers to the action of opening something that was previously folded. It can apply to various items, such as paper, fabric, or even abstract concepts like plans or ideas.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She unfolded the letter carefully.
- He unfolded the map to find his location.
- The fabric unfolded beautifully as she draped it over the chair.
state of being
Unfolded describes something that is not folded or is fully opened out. This term can be used to describe objects or ideas that have been revealed or are laid out in full view.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The unfolded laundry was neatly stacked.
- She admired the unfolded design of the origami.
- The artist displayed his unfolded sketches.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Art
- Artists often use folding techniques in origami to create intricate models that are only revealed when unfolded.
- In painting, artists sometimes layer canvases, unfolding new layers of meaning as they are revealed in the final work.
- The concept of unfolding is prevalent in storytelling, where plotlines often unravel gradually, revealing deeper themes.
Psychology
- In psychology, 'unfolding' can describe the process of revealing one's true self in therapy, moving beyond initial defenses.
- Therapeutic techniques often involve 'unfolding' a person's experiences to understand underlying emotions better.
- Metaphorically, people speak of 'unfolding' their potential, suggesting a gradual reveal of skills and abilities.
Technology
- In computer graphics, 'unfolding' can refer to the method of laying out 3D objects into a 2D representation for animation.
- Smartphone designs often 'unfold' to become larger screens, allowing users to view content more easily.
- Unfolding algorithms in machine learning help to simplify complex problems, making them easier to analyze and solve.
Nature
- Plants display a fascinating form of unfold when their leaves or flowers open up with sunlight, a process called phototropism.
- Butterflies emerge from chrysalises by unfolding their colorful wings, symbolizing transformation and beauty.
- In natural processes, the unfolding of geological layers reveals the history of Earthโs formation over millions of years.
Origin of 'unfolded'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unfold' comes from the Old English 'unfaldan,' meaning to open or spread out.
- The prefix 'un-' means not or the opposite of, and 'fold' comes from a root meaning to bend.
- The evolution of the term reflects humanity's relationship with textiles; fabrics were often folded for storage.
The word 'unfolded' originates from the Old English 'unfolde', which combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'folde', the past participle of 'foldan', meaning 'to fold'. The use of 'unfold' can be traced back to the early medieval period, where it primarily referred to the physical action of opening something that had been previously folded. Historically, this term has evolved and expanded to include metaphorical uses, such as unfolding a story or an idea. This extension reflects a broader cultural and linguistic tendency to use physical metaphors to describe abstract processes. Through time, 'unfolded' has retained its association with revelation, whether in literature or in everyday situations, signifying the process of revealing or making something clear.