unroll

[ uhn-rohl ]

verb (used with object)

1. to open or spread out (something rolled or coiled):

   to unroll a bolt of fabric.

2. to lay open; display; reveal.
3. Obsolete. to strike from a roll or register.

verb (used without object)

1. to become unrolled or spread out:

   The scrolls unroll easily.

2. to become continuously visible or apparent:

   The landscape unrolled before our eyes.

unroll

/ ʌnˈrəʊl /

verb

1. to open out or unwind (something rolled, folded, or coiled) or (of something rolled, etc) to become opened out or unwound
2. to make or become visible or apparent, esp gradually; unfold

Word History and Origins

Origin of unroll¹

First recorded in 1375–1425, unroll is from the late Middle English word unrollen. See un- ², roll

Example Sentences

Can you unroll the extent of the processes that have happened here and why this has been going on for over two decades?

From Slate

Some people even unroll tin cans into strips to form parts of their walls.

From BBC

The test will unroll over the next 10 weeks.

From Los Angeles Times

The roll for King Charles III, an exercise in craftsmanship as much as record-keeping, is expected to go on public display, before being stored in the National Archive, so that future generations can unroll this moment of history.

From BBC

Then, it was time to unroll the stunning red and gold area rug.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• unfurl