unpack

[ uhn-pak ]

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.).

verb (used without object)

1. to remove the contents of a container.

unpack

/ 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

Derived Forms

• unˈpacker, noun

Other Words From

• un·packer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unpack¹

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

Example Sentences

In a recent interview, Wise unpacked the process and inspirations, musical and otherwise, behind his music for the first two Donkey Kong Country games.

From New York Times

They want to analyze Trump like he’s a series of scandals or controversies to unpack on a whiteboard — something logical, manageable.

From Salon

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

There are certainly many other factors to consider in unpacking what happened in the 2024 election, including that it was just one element in a global trend of incumbent losses.

From Salon

A newcomer on the election night broadcasting scene, Amazon Prime’s “Election Night Live” with Brian Williams, is a novel effort to disrupt the big-network monopoly on unpacking race results.

From Salon

Related Words

• take out
• unload