unpack

verb

un·​pack ˌən-ˈpak How to pronounce unpack (audio)
unpacked; unpacking; unpacks

transitive verb

1
a
: to remove the contents of
unpack a suitcase
b
: unburden, reveal
must … unpack my heart with wordsWilliam Shakespeare
2
: to remove or undo from packing or a container
unpacked his gear
3
: to analyze the nature of by examining in detail : explicate
unpack a concept
4
: decompress sense 2
unpack a compressed file

intransitive verb

: to engage in unpacking a container
unpacker noun

Examples of unpack in a Sentence

It's been a year since I moved here and I still haven't unpacked all of my books. I unpacked my suitcase as soon as I arrived home. By the time we got to the hotel, I was too tired to unpack. She's good at unpacking complex concepts.
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.
Keep in mind, there are also often guest service perks available; Ali shares that visitors appreciate Langham’s butler suite services, which include unpacking, ironing, and arranging wardrobes for guests. Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2025 For instance, The Way Down explores cult leaders, while Devil in the Family unpacks abusive parents and Unknown Number reveals the devastating realities of cyberbullying. James Mercadante, PEOPLE, 25 Oct. 2025 The summit unpacked these findings across multiple panels and discussions featuring media executives, content creators and academics. Andrew McGowan, Variety, 24 Oct. 2025 The team behind Topicals, moderated by Kiana Murden alongside Roxana Ontiveros and Helena Youhana, unpacked how the brand continues to challenge industry norms by centering culture and authenticity in every campaign. Larry Stansbury, Essence, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unpack

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of unpack was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Unpack.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unpack. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

unpack

verb
un·​pack ˌən-ˈpak How to pronounce unpack (audio)
ˈən-
1
: to separate and remove things packed
got home and unpacked
2
: to open and remove the contents of
unpack a trunk

More from Merriam-Webster on unpack

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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