unpack
Americanverb (used with object)
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to undo or remove the contents from (a box, trunk, etc.).
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to remove (something) from a container, suitcase, etc.
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to unburden, as the mind; reveal.
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to decipher or discern (the meaning of symbols, statements, etc.).
Each statement could be unpacked in the general theory.
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to remove a pack or load from (a horse, vehicle, etc.).
verb (used without object)
verb
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to remove the packed contents of (a case, trunk, etc)
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(tr) to take (something) out of a packed container
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(tr) to remove a pack from; unload
to unpack a mule
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(tr) to explain (a question, issue, etc) by analysing its component parts
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of unpack
First recorded in 1425–75, unpack is from the late Middle English word unpakken. See un- 2, pack 1
Explanation
To unpack is to take stuff out that's been packed, like the clothing in your suitcase or the fragile item that's been buried in ten thousand Styrofoam peanuts. If a large shipment arrives at a company, it may take several people to unpack the items and take stock of the contents. We also use unpack to describe analyzing something by taking it apart. This is sort of like unpacking a box or unpacking your luggage, because you're dismantling the components of something, but it's more likely an idea than a physical object.
Vocabulary lists containing unpack
Word Generation Science - Introductory Chemistry Concepts
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100 SAT Words Beginning with "U"
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Unit 8
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In Expedia’s Unpack ’25 report, which investigates travel trends, 39% of the 25,000 surveyed travelers said they visited supermarkets on vacation, and 44% said they’ve expressly sought out food there they can’t find at home.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025
Unpack that scene for me as Kathy Bates.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 14, 2025
Unpack their luggage and arrange items on their nightstand, clothes in the closet and dresser, and toiletries in the bathroom.
From Washington Post • May 12, 2022
“We would be grateful for your support as we” – Unpack the wedding presents?
From The Guardian • Feb. 6, 2020
Unpack my running-suit and rub some dirt on it—it's too new.
From Going Some by Beach, Rex Ellingwood
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
