DECOMPRESS Synonyms: 41 Similar and Opposite Words

decompress

verb

ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres

as in to relax

to get rid of nervous tension or anxiety after she gets home from work, she needs some time to decompress before preparing dinner

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

tense (up)

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of decompress With six bedrooms for up to 10 guests, the sprawling Italian villa is a stunning place to commune while offering each visitor an area to decompress on their own. —

Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 11 Apr. 2026 Scientists say taking brief moments to decompress during the workday and after can improve mood, sharpen focus and boost energy levels. —

ABC News, 8 Apr. 2026 With her own space, Mila could decompress and get ready at her own pace, while Nathanael and I enjoyed rare pockets of alone time on our own balcony, watching the Pacific sun dip below the horizon. —

Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 2 Apr. 2026 Hurley seriously considered resigning, taking a gap year to decompress, and doing some TV before jumping back into the college game or the pros. —

Ian O'Connor, New York Times, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for decompress

Recent Examples of Synonyms for decompress

relax

Verb

Teachers were encouraged to act as therapists and relax rigor, ease grading, and lessen homework.

— Steven F. Wilson, The Atlantic, 24 Apr. 2026
But the only policy lever available to the state, and one whose impact won’t be felt until late May, is to temporarily relax the Low Carbon Fuel Standard to allow a broader range of gasoline to be used.

— James Rector, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026