unwind

American  

[uhn-wahynd] / ʌnˈwaɪnd /

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 British  

/ 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

Etymology

Origin of unwind

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

Example Sentences

It’s my guilty pleasure and helps me unwind.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

That trade would likely unwind if the Iran war ends, although a lot depends on whether the U.S. and its allies are able to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Morgan Stanley now expects the European Central Bank to raise rates by 50 basis points in 2026, in June and September, but to unwind those hikes in 2027.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

Some international managers might view the long gaps between games as a chance to unwind.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

“This new school is a good opportunity for you, Natalie,” my mother tells her as I watch the boat guy unwind a rope, as thick as my arm, from the cleat.

From "Al Capone Does My Shirts" by Gennifer Choldenko

Related Words

• loosen
• unfurl
• unravel