unroll
Americanverb (used with object)
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to open or spread out (something rolled or coiled).
to unroll a bolt of fabric.
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to lay open; display; reveal.
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Obsolete. to strike from a roll or register.
verb (used without object)
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to become unrolled or spread out.
The scrolls unroll easily.
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to become continuously visible or apparent.
The landscape unrolled before our eyes.
verb
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to open out or unwind (something rolled, folded, or coiled) or (of something rolled, etc) to become opened out or unwound
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to make or become visible or apparent, esp gradually; unfold
Etymology
Origin of unroll
First recorded in 1375–1425, unroll is from the late Middle English word unrollen. See un- 2, roll
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.
Unroll the rubber and set it in the depression, leaving enough excess to lap up onto the ground surrounding the pond.
From Seattle Times • Jun. 21, 2022
Unroll phyllo, but keep it loosely covered with a damp, clean kitchen towel.
From Seattle Times • Aug. 16, 2016
Unroll the pastry and peel off two sheets; keep the rest covered under a tea towel until needed, otherwise it will dry out.
From The Guardian • Dec. 5, 2015
Unroll the sleeping bags and go to sleep.
From Washington Post • Jun. 26, 2012
"Unroll that tapestry," I said to the merchant in a hurried, gasping voice, like one in a fever.
From One of Cleopatra's Nights and Other Fantastic Romances One of Cleopatra's Nights?Clarimonde?Arria Marcella?The Mummy's Foot?Omphale: a Rococo Story?King Candaules by Gautier, Th?ophile
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.
