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Unzipped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unzipped

[ʌnˈzɪpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

file extraction

Unzipped is the past tense of the verb unzip, which refers to the act of opening or extracting files from a compressed folder or archive. This process is commonly used in computer software to reduce file sizes for storage or transfer. Once a file is unzipped, it can be accessed and used in its original form. The term is widely recognized in the context of file management and software utilities that handle compressed files.

Synonyms

extracted, opened.

Examples of usage

  • I unzipped the downloaded folder before opening it.
  • The files were unzipped successfully without any errors.
  • Make sure to unzipped the contents to access the documents.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computing, 'unzipped' refers to extracting files from a compressed format, making them accessible.
  • The process of unzipping files was greatly popularized by software like WinZip, which allowed faster access to large data sets.
  • Compressing and unzipping data helps save storage space and makes file transfers quicker and more efficient.

Pop Culture

  • The visual of 'unzipping' has been popularly used in fashion and advertisement to symbolize openness or unveiling.
  • In movies, unzipping is often used to create dramatic reveals, such as uncovering hidden identities or secrets.
  • Songs and lyrics often reference unzipping in a metaphorical way to discuss themes of revelation and intimacy.

Psychology

  • Unzipping as a concept can imply vulnerability, suggesting a person is opening up emotionally.
  • Studies show that people feel a sense of relief when they 'unzip' or unburden themselves, akin to sharing secrets with others.
  • The act of unzipping can symbolize taking off a shield or defense, making individuals more relatable.

Literature

  • Writers often use the metaphor of unzipping to explore themes of discovery and the revealing of hidden truths.
  • In poetry, unzipping can symbolize the act of opening oneself to experience or emotions, inviting readers to a deeper understanding.
  • Characters in novels may 'unzip' their pasts throughout the storyline, showcasing their growth or change.

Origin of 'unzipped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'the opposite of' and 'zip,' which refers to the fastening mechanism.
  • The term 'zip' itself originated in the 1910s, derived from the sound made when a zipper was pulled.
  • Zippers were first invented in the 19th century; the ability to 'unzip' an item became part of everyday language as zippers became popular.

The term 'unzipped' derives from the word 'zip', which is a file format introduced in 1989 by Phil Katz as a means of file compression. The zip format allows the bundling of multiple files into a single archive while reducing their overall size through lossless compression. The software used to create and extract zip files is commonly known as 'zip software'. As technology evolved, the term 'unzip' emerged to describe the process of extracting files from these compressed archives. It became part of the standard lexicon in computing. The popularity of the zip format and its trademarked name led to the verb form 'zip' becoming prevalent in discussions about file management, storage, and data transfer. As more people began using computers for various purposes in the 1990s, the action of extracting files, or 'unzipping', became an everyday task for users worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,747, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.