decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

decompressed; decompressing; decompresses

transitive verb

1

: to release from pressure or compression

2

: to convert (something, such as a compressed file or signal) to an expanded or original size

intransitive verb

: to undergo release from pressure

especially : relax

need a week off to decompress

decompression

ˌdē-kəm-ˈpre-shən 

noun

Synonyms

• chill
• chill out [slang]
• de-stress
• loosen up
• mellow (out)
• relax
• unwind
• wind down

Examples of decompress in a Sentence

Once pressure was released, the vertebrae decompressed.

The file must be decompressed before it can be read.

Recent Examples on the Web

As part of its ongoing upgrades, the airport also plans to add a terrace with an outdoor garden, so passengers can decompress before their (likely long) overseas flight. —Ryan Krogh, Outside Online, 4 Dec. 2024

It’s always been essential to my self-care routine and the ideal way to decompress from the day's activities. —Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 20 Nov. 2024

The dogs are comfortable and decompressing for now. —Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 17 Nov. 2024

Watch this video for five tips to decompress after a long day. —Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 15 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

1

: to release from pressure or compression

2

: to convert (as a computer file) from compressed form to an expanded or original size

decompression

-ˈpresh-ən 

noun

Medical Definition

decompress

transitive verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

: to release from pressure or compression