decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
decompressed; decompressing; decompresses
Synonyms of decompressnext

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 noun

Synonyms of decompress

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
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.
Alpert was also incredibly impressed by how quickly the mattress decompressed after delivery. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 19 Mar. 2026 Supporters said the practice would give students time to decompress and set themselves up to learn. Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 11 Mar. 2026 The park offers a quiet spot to decompress before the excitement of a match or after an intense game. Taylor Haught, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2026 The primary bedroom feels like a high-end hotel suite, with a custom walk-in closet and a spa-style bath designed for decompressing after a long day. Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for decompress

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decompress was in 1905

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Decompress.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decompress. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

decompress

verb
de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
1
: to release from pressure or compression
2
: to convert (as a computer file) from compressed form to an expanded or original size
decompression noun

Medical Definition

decompress

transitive verb
de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
: to release from pressure or compression
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