unwrap
uhn-RAP
/ʌnˈræp/
To remove the wrapping or covering from a package, gift, or parcel.
Implies the physical action of peeling back paper, fabric, or plastic, often associated with excitement, curiosity, and discovery.
The story behind the word. Formed in the late Middle Ages by combining the Germanic prefix 'un-' (which reverses the action of a verb) with the Middle English verb 'wrappen'. It has remained a simple, highly visual word for centuries, capturing the universal human joy of revealing a hidden treasure.
Word relationships
- uncover: 'Uncover' means to remove a lid or top layer, while 'unwrap' specifically means to peel off a material that completely surrounds an object.
- reveal: 'Reveal' is an abstract term for making something known, whereas 'unwrap' is a physical action.
- wrap: 'Wrap' is the action of covering or enclosing an object in paper or material.
Commonly confused with
- unpack: 'Unpack' means to take items out of a suitcase, box, or container, while 'unwrap' means to remove the paper or material tightly folded around a single item.
Word family
- unwrapped (verb): Past tense of unwrap.
- unwrapping (verb): The ongoing action of removing a wrapper.
Collocations
- unwrap a gift
- unwrap a parcel
- unwrap a package
- carefully unwrap
Example sentences
- "The children could barely contain their excitement as they began to unwrap their birthday presents." Children on Christmas morning.
Memory hook
Unwrap is simply the opposite of wrap. You 'un-' (undo) the 'wrap'. Unwrap to reveal the trap (gift).
When not to use
Do not use for abstract concepts like 'unwrapping a mystery' unless you are intentionally using a vivid literary metaphor.
Fun facts
- The world record for the fastest time to unwrap a single gift is under two seconds, a feat achieved using specialized tearing techniques.
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