unfold

American  

[uhn-fohld] / ʌnˈfoʊld /

verb (used with object)

1. to bring out of a folded state; spread or open out.

   Unfold your arms.

2. to spread out or lay open to view.

3. to reveal or display.

4. to reveal or disclose in words, especially by careful or systematic exposition; set forth; explain.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become unfolded; open.

2. to develop.

3. to become clear, apparent, or known.

   The protagonist's character unfolds as the story reaches its climax.

unfold British  

/ ʌnˈfəʊld /

verb

1. to open or spread out or be opened or spread out from a folded state

2. to reveal or be revealed

   the truth unfolds

3. to develop or expand or be developed or expanded

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Other Word Forms

• unfoldable adjective
• unfolder noun
• unfoldment noun

Etymology

Origin of unfold

before 900; Middle English unfolden, Old English unfealdan; cognate with German entfalten. See un- ², fold ¹

Example Sentences

Brydon also revealed a highlight which unfolded away from the cameras, when he took Coogan for a drive along the mountain roads in a classic car he had rented.

From BBC

My story on the rapidly unfolding events and reaction to the outcome ran on A1.

From Los Angeles Times

Factors like lifestyle, support, mindset and timing all play into how futures post-GLP-1s unfold.

From BBC

Speaking ahead of the sentencing, Ms Hopkins said she was grateful to have a healthy son this Christmas after the "horror story" that unfolded earlier this year.

From BBC

Lifesavers wanted to recognise the "tragedy that has unfolded at Bondi while also reflecting on our respect and compassion for the Jewish community targeted by this attack", Bondi's two lifesaving clubs said in a message.

From Barron's

Related Words

• illustrate
• resolve
• reveal
• solve
• unravel