unfold
un-FOHLD
/ʌnˈfəʊld/
To open or spread out from a folded state; to be revealed or happen over time.
Suggests a natural reveal, like a flower blooming or a story being told.
The story behind the word. A pure Germanic word. It literally means to 'un-fold' something that was tucked away. It captures the beauty of a map being opened or a secret being shared.
Word relationships
- reveal: Reveal can be sudden; unfold implies a gradual process of showing.
- transpire: Transpire is more formal and often used for secrets coming to light.
- conceal: Conceal means to hide or keep secret.
Commonly confused with
- evolve: Evolve implies changing into something new; unfold implies revealing what was already there.
Word family
- folder (noun): Something that holds folded papers.
Collocations
- events unfold
- story unfolds
- unfold before one's eyes
Example sentences
- "We watched the drama unfold on the stage with bated breath." Storytelling
- "As spring arrived, the leaves began to unfold on the ancient oak tree." Nature
Memory hook
Imagine 'unfolding' a letter to read the news. The story 'unfolds' as you open the paper. Open to reveal.
When not to use
Avoid for highly technical or mechanical descriptions where 'deploy' might be better.
Fun facts
- The word 'manifold' comes from the same root, meaning 'many folds'.
Related words
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