unfold

/ˈʌnˌfoʊld/

/ənˈfʌʊld/

Other forms: unfolded; unfolding; unfolds

To unfold is to open or reveal, the way a small square of paper might unfold into a large map, or the way the plot of a mystery novel can unfold into a clear picture of who the killer is.

Anything that's folded or compacted unfolds as it opens up and stretches out. So a yoga teacher might curl into a tight ball and then unfold his limbs, stretching them wide. Or you might unfold a tightly sealed secret note or a gently creased letter from your grandparents. Information can unfold figuratively, too, or become more open and clear: "As the details of the crime began to unfold, the detective got ready to make an arrest."

Definitions of unfold

1. verb

   extend or stretch out to a greater or the full length
   “Unfold the newspaper”

   synonyms: extend, stretch, stretch out

   extend

   open or straighten out; unbend

   type of:

   change form, change shape, deform

   assume a different shape or form
2. verb

   spread out or open from a closed or folded state
   synonyms: open, spread, spread out

   antonyms:

   fold

   bend or lay so that one part covers the other

   types:

   divaricate

   spread apart

   exfoliate

   spread by opening the leaves of

   grass

   spread out clothes on the grass to let it dry and bleach

   butterfly

   cut and spread open, as in preparation for cooking

   uncross

   change from a crossed to an uncrossed position

   splay

   spread open or apart

   type of:

   undo

   cancel, annul, or reverse an action or its effect
3. verb

   develop or come to a promising stage
   synonyms: blossom, blossom forth, blossom out

   type of:

   develop

   grow, progress, unfold, or evolve through a process of evolution, natural growth, differentiation, or a conducive environment
4. verb

   open to the view
   “A walk through town will unfold many interesting buildings”

   type of:

   bring out, reveal, uncover, unveil

   make visible