unpack

American  

[uhn-pak] / ʌnˈpæk /

verb (used with object)

1. to undo or remove the contents from (a box, trunk, etc.).

2. to remove (something) from a container, suitcase, etc.

3. to unburden, as the mind; reveal.

4. to decipher or discern (the meaning of symbols, statements, etc.).

   Each statement could be unpacked in the general theory.

5. to remove a pack or load from (a horse, vehicle, etc.).

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verb (used without object)

1. to remove the contents of a container.

unpack British  

/ ʌnˈpæk /

verb

1. to remove the packed contents of (a case, trunk, etc)

2. (tr) to take (something) out of a packed container

3. (tr) to remove a pack from; unload

   to unpack a mule

4. (tr) to explain (a question, issue, etc) by analysing its component parts

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Other Word Forms

• unpacker noun

Etymology

Origin of unpack

First recorded in 1425–75, unpack is from the late Middle English word unpakken. See un- ², pack ¹

Example Sentences

Did you find yourself unpacking some of those emotions in the process, or is it just something that you’re sort of reflecting on now that it’s over?

From Los Angeles Times

But some have taken to social media with questions: “How do you think you juice a banana?!” tybottofficial asked on TikTok, while unpacking a box of organic banana water from Woodstock.

From Los Angeles Times

There's a lot to unpack so we're going to explain it as simply as we can.

From BBC

"It should help to identify all terminally-sick ant pupae but be precise enough to avoid triggering the unpacking of healthy pupae or those capable of overcoming the infection with their own immune system."

From Science Daily

The fun part of the casting process, especially when casting is a closed circuit and it’s a pre-existing group of people, is you start to unpack all the relationships, and the show emerges.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• take out
• unload