decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

decompressed; decompressing; decompresses

transitive verb

1

: to release from pressure or compression

2

: to convert (something, such as a compressed file or signal) to an expanded or original size

intransitive verb

: to undergo release from pressure

especially : relax

need a week off to decompress

decompression

ˌdē-kəm-ˈpre-shən 

noun

Synonyms of decompress

• relax

Examples of decompress in a Sentence

Once pressure was released, the vertebrae decompressed.

The file must be decompressed before it can be read.

Recent Examples on the Web

Repeatedly analyzing old conversations or unresolved issues isn’t getting you anywhere, so consider this an opportunity to take a step back and allow your mind to decompress. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 25 Aug. 2026

Take breaks, organize with a support person, and allow yourself time to decompress after each session. — The Spruce, 24 Aug. 2026

That’s all — a quick jaunt from Point A to Point B, a chance to catch up and decompress after a hectic semester. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 21 Aug. 2026

Evans said Collinson’s research indicates that the ability to rest and decompress at the beginning of a journey can influence the enjoyment that follows. — Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for decompress

• abs
• acquiesce
• authoress
• bodiless
• coalesce
• dispossess
• faithfulness
• letterpress
• mayoress
• murderess
• nonetheless
• reassess

Kids Definition

decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

1

: to release from pressure or compression

2

: to convert (as a computer file) from compressed form to an expanded or original size

decompression

-ˈpresh-ən 

noun

Medical Definition

decompress

transitive verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

: to release from pressure or compression