unclose

[ uhn-klohz ]

verb (used with or without object)

, un·closed, un·clos·ing.

1. to bring or come out of a closed state; open.

unclose

/ ʌnˈkləʊz /

verb

1. to open or cause to open
2. to come or bring to light; reveal or be revealed

Word History and Origins

Origin of unclose¹

First recorded in 1300–50, unclose is from the Middle English word unclosen. See un- ², close

Example Sentences

I heard the dining-room door unclose; a gentleman came out; rising hastily, I stood face to face with him: it was Mr. Rochester.

From Literature

I must watch this ghastly countenance—these blue, still lips forbidden to unclose—these eyes now shut, now opening, now wandering through the room, now fixing on me, and ever glazed with the dulness of horror.

From Literature

“These plaintiffs just don’t have standing to challenge the settlement. You can’t unclose a federally closed matter. And I consider the matter to be closed.”

From New York Times

I will not attempt to describe the feelings with which the husband beheld the eyelids of his wife unclose, and the rose-tints return to the pallid cheeks.

From Project Gutenberg

Surely in two years he might unclose his lips; for he would work—it would be no wearisome task.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• loosen
• unlock
• unravel