unfold

verb

un·​fold ˌən-ˈfōld 

unfolded; unfolding; unfolds

transitive verb

1

a

: to open the folds of : spread or straighten out : expand

unfolded the map

b

: to remove (something, such as a package) from the folds : unwrap

2

: to open to the view : reveal

especially : to make clear by gradual disclosure and often by recital

intransitive verb

1

a

: to open from a folded state : open out : expand

b

: blossom

2

: develop, evolve

as the story unfolds

3

: to open out gradually to the view or understanding : become known

a panorama unfolds before their eyes

unfoldment

ˌən-ˈfōl(d)-mənt 

noun

Synonyms

• expand
• extend
• fan (out)
• flare (out)
• open
• outspread
• outstretch
• spread (out)
• stretch (out)
• unfurl

Examples of unfold in a Sentence

The couch unfolds to form a bed.

We'll have more news as events unfold.

We watched the drama unfold on live television.

As the story unfolds, we learn that the boy became an orphan when he was one year old.

Recent Examples on the Web

Around the same time, Argentine prosecutors were building a larger case that would, unfolding over the next five years, expose the inner workings of the entire torture-and-murder apparatus at ESMA. —Joshua Hammer, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Dec. 2024

Club officials had a plethora of permutations for how this winter would unfold, but had not committed to anything before gathering this week at the Winter Meetings. —Chandler Rome, The Athletic, 12 Dec. 2024

Their love continues to unfold around collaborations, social justice advocacy, music and steadfast commitments for each other and their communities. —Candace Hansen, Los Angeles Times, 10 Dec. 2024

As the trial unfolds — and with Geel (actress Francisca Lewin) in a comfortable private cell — Mercedes gains access to Geel’s elegant apartment and expensive wardrobe. —Carlos Aguilar, IndieWire, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Kids Definition

unfold

verb

un·​fold ˌən-ˈfōld 

1

a

: to spread or cause to spread or straighten out from a folded position or arrangement

unfolded the map

b

: unwrap

2

: bloom entry 2 sense 1

3

: develop sense 1a

as the story unfolds

4

: to open out or cause to open out gradually to the view or understanding

new technology unfolds before us