unwind

[uhn-wahynd]

verb (used with object)

unwound, unwinding 

1. to undo or loosen from or as if from a coiled condition.

   to unwind a rolled bandage; to unwind a coiled rope.

2. to reduce the tension of; relax.

   to unwind a person with a drink.

3. to disentangle or disengage; untwist.

   to unwind one's legs from around the stool.

verb (used without object)

unwound, unwinding 

1. to become unwound.

2. to become relieved of tension; relax.

   After work we can have a drink and unwind.

unwind

/ ʌnˈwaɪnd /

verb

1. to slacken, undo, or unravel or cause to slacken, undo, or unravel

2. (tr) to disentangle

3. to make or become relaxed

   he finds it hard to unwind after a busy day at work

Other Word Forms

• unwindable adjective
• unwinder noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unwind¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English onwinden; un- ², wind ²

Example Sentences

"Gold is often seen as a hedge against uncertainty, but the hedge can be unwound."

Read more on BBC

The Yes on 50 campaign said the decision is still ultimately up to voters, who created the independent redistricting commission and have the right to unwind it.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s not rare for “Bob’s Burgers” to be described as a “comfort show” — something fans can turn on to unwind or fall asleep to.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

We cannot rewind or unwind the AI revolution.

Read more on Salon

The Bank began its quantitative tightening programme in 2022, unwinding the emergency support it brought in after the 2008 financial crisis.

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Related Words

• loosen 
• unfurl 
• unravel