unbox

American  

[uhn-boks] / ʌnˈbɒks /

verb (used with object)

1. to remove from a box.

2. to remove (a new product or desirable purchase) from its box or packaging, especially for others to see.

   I just uploaded a video of me unboxing my new tablet.

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Etymology

Origin of unbox

First recorded in 1600-50; un- ² + box ¹

Explanation

To unbox something is to open it and remove it from its packaging. You'd better wait to unbox those birthday gifts until your actual birthday! Use the verb unbox to mean "unpack" or "take out," especially when you're talking about a brand new item or one that's been mailed in an actual box. When you finally buy a new television, it will be exciting to unbox it. There is an entire category of internet videos in which people unbox electronics, toys, and other products, carefully documenting each stage of the process.

Example Sentences

“Especially in such a digital world,” he said, “it feels special to be able to unbox a piece of music—‘look at the sparkles!

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 14, 2025

Streamers will still be able to talk about and unbox sponsored products.

From Washington Times • Jun. 7, 2023

She bought clothes, purses, gaming consoles — things she didn’t even unbox.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 8, 2023

I’ve got a pile of packages on my front porch right now that I’ll have to unbox, go through, rebox, and drive to Goodwill.

From Slate • Jan. 3, 2023

Ask Bliss how it would be to ship our furniture to Hartford, rent an upper room in a building and unbox it and store it there where somebody can frequently look after it.

From Mark Twain's Letters — Volume 2 (1867-1875) by Paine, Albert Bigelow

Related Words

• take out
• unload