unfurl

[uhn-furl]

verb (used with object)

1. to spread or shake out from a furled state, as a sail or a flag; unfold.

verb (used without object)

1. to become unfurled.

unfurl

/ ʌnˈfɜːl /

verb

1. to unroll, unfold, or spread out or be unrolled, unfolded, or spread out from a furled state

Other Word Forms

• unfurlable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of unfurl¹

First recorded in 1635–45; un- ² + furl

Example Sentences

The saltire, which was long embraced by supporters of Scottish independence, has now been unfurled for a different cause.

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There was a large sign unfurled with “300 wins” prominent, along with special T-shirts and hats made for the occasion.

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Chants of "Free Palestine" were also heard after Maccabi supporters unfurled an Israeli flag.

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Pro-Palestinian protests resulted in the interruption of the team's time trial on stage five, when four riders were forced to stop to avoid hitting protesters who were unfurling a banner.

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Judges approvingly noted features including its "dramatic staircases unfurling through a shared 'heart space' to encourage collaboration".

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Related Words

• unfold 
• unroll 
• unwind