unwind

verb

un·​wind ˌən-ˈwīnd 

unwound ˌən-ˈwau̇nd  ; unwinding

transitive verb

1

a

: to cause to uncoil : wind off : unroll

b

: to free from or as if from a binding or wrapping

c

: to release from tension : relax

2

archaic : to trace to the end

unwinding the labryinth and bringing the hero out

—Laurence Sterne

3

: to undo (a financial arrangement or position) through the necessary legal or financial steps

unwound most of its natural gas hedges

—The New York Times

intransitive verb

1

: to become uncoiled or disentangled : unfold

2

: to become released from tension

take a bath to unwind

Synonyms

• relax

Examples of unwind in a Sentence

She unwound some thread from the spool.

The fishing line unwound quickly.

I wanted to unwind after a hard day.

Recent Examples on the Web

Here, visitors can relax and unwind in comfortable accommodations before heading to the mountain—setting the foundation for the perfect trip. —Angela Adto Tepper, Travel + Leisure, 10 July 2025

Once there, many stayed for two to three months, soaking in the mineral-rich hot springs, breathing the crisp Rocky Mountain air and unwinding in the opulent Stone Bath House. —Brittany Anas, Denver Post, 9 July 2025

The chance to unwind after long days of driving is another draw for the drivers, who form unique bonds after living through the chaos and laughter (Broken down cars! —Gillian Telling, People.com, 8 July 2025

Relax and unwind with wellness rituals inspired by authentic Mexican traditions. —Miriam Porter, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Rhymes for unwind

• aligned
• alined
• assigned
• behind
• combined
• confined
• consigned
• declined
• defined
• designed
• divined
• enshrined

Kids Definition

unwind

verb

un·​wind ˌən-ˈwīnd 

ˈən-

unwound -ˈwau̇nd  ; unwinding

1

a

: to cause to uncoil : wind off

b

: to become uncoiled or untangled

2

: to make or become free of tension : relax

wanted to unwind after a hard day