unpack
verb (used with object)
to undo or remove the contents from (a box, trunk, etc.).
was unpacking
-
past progressiveof unpack.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
While pursuing a graduate degree in London, rising filmmaker Nia DaCosta was unpacking complicated feelings of homesickness when she began to conceptualize the script for her directorial debut, “Little Woods.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 23, 2025
She said her family had earlier spent a few fun days away in Glasgow and she was unpacking a car on the morning of 10 August.
From BBC ● Nov. 14, 2024
An On Point volunteer arrived on his doorstep and helped him load up his few belongings; an hour later, he was unpacking in his new dorm room.
From Washington Post ● Jan. 30, 2022
Back in her apartment, Ms. Porizkova was unpacking, sorting through mail and peeling and posting samples of temporary wallpaper for Oliver’s bedroom.
From New York Times ● May 15, 2021
Later that week I was unpacking a trunk when one of the managers approached me.
From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson
