unfold

1 to arrange the parts of (something) over a wider area <carefully unfold that antique map so that it doesn't tear> Synonyms expand, extend, fan (out), flare (out), outspread, outstretch, spread (out), stretch (out), open, unfurlRelated Words overspreadNear Antonyms compact, compress, condense, reduceAntonyms close, contract, fold

2 to gradually become clearer or more detailed <as the situation unfolded, it became clear that more help would be needed> Synonyms elaborate, evolve, developRelated Words advance, fare, forge, get along, get on, march, proceed, progress; blossom, grow, mature, ripen; materialize; emerge, play out

3 to produce flowers <the rosebud unfolded literally overnight> Synonyms blossom, blow, burgeon (also bourgeon), effloresce, flower, bloomRelated Words leaf, leave; bud; openNear Antonyms dry up, fade, shrivel, wilt, wither; die, drop, expire, perish

4 to come into view <the majestic landscape unfolded before us> Synonyms come out, materialize, show, show up, turn up, appearRelated Words reappear, resurface; bulk, loom; arrive, come; dawn, debut; arise, blossom, bob (up), break, break out, crop (up), emerge, erupt, issue, outcrop, rise, shoot (up), spring (up), surface; happen, occur; reappear, rematerializeNear Antonyms depart, leave, retire, withdrawAntonyms clear, disappear, dissolve, evanesce, evaporate, fade, go (away), melt (away), vanish