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unreel

[uhn-reel]
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verb (used with object)
  1. to unwind from or as if from a reel: to unreel some wire; to unreel a tangled skein.
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verb (used without object)
  1. to become unreeled.
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Origin of unreel

First recorded in 1560–70; un-2 + reel1
Related formsun·reel·a·ble, adjectiveun·reel·er, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Related Words

loosen, unravel, unfurl, loose, slacken, separate, disentangle, free, unroll, unwrap, ravel, unbend, untwine, untwist, unreel, uncoil

Examples from the Web for unreel

Historical Examples

  • He pulled the string that was to unreel the rope and let him down.

    The Adventures of Uncle Jeremiah and Family at the Great Fair

    Charles McCellan Stevens (AKA 'Quondam')

  • "Unreel the hose," the inventor continued, and Mark and Jack ran to do this.