unfold

American  

[uhn-fohld] / ʌnˈfoʊld /

verb (used with object)

1. to bring out of a folded state; spread or open out.

   Unfold your arms.

2. to spread out or lay open to view.

3. to reveal or display.

4. to reveal or disclose in words, especially by careful or systematic exposition; set forth; explain.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become unfolded; open.

2. to develop.

3. to become clear, apparent, or known.

   The protagonist's character unfolds as the story reaches its climax.

unfold British  

/ ʌnˈfəʊld /

verb

1. to open or spread out or be opened or spread out from a folded state

2. to reveal or be revealed

   the truth unfolds

3. to develop or expand or be developed or expanded

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Other Word Forms

• unfoldable adjective
• unfolder noun
• unfoldment noun

Etymology

Origin of unfold

before 900; Middle English unfolden, Old English unfealdan; cognate with German entfalten. See un- ², fold ¹

Example Sentences

She adds that she quickly "forgot the cameras were there", which meant arguments would unfold as they normally would, only for Habboo to then "worry about it afterwards".

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Some players have watched the changes unfold during their college careers.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Many corrective phases unfold gradually, over time rather than immediately in price.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

My own experience watching these debates unfold has underscored how quickly abstract legal theories can translate into concrete consequences for voters.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

I also do it because Christoffel won't dare unfold this letter to read it—he'd never be able to refold it into this shape.

From "Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse

Related Words

• illustrate
• resolve
• reveal
• solve
• unravel