unscramble

verb

un·​scram·​ble ˌən-ˈskram-bəl 

unscrambled; unscrambling; unscrambles

transitive verb

1

: to separate (something, such as a conglomeration or tangle) into original components : resolve, clarify

2

: to restore (scrambled communication) to intelligible form

unscrambler

ˌən-ˈskram-b(ə-)lər 

noun

Examples of unscramble in a Sentence

We weren't able to unscramble the satellite signal.

Unscramble the letters ALCEDNRA to spell “CALENDAR.”

Recent Examples on the Web

But uncertainty over what happens in the weeks ahead, as well as the complexity of unscrambling the blockage created by the closure of the strait, will continue to affect gasoline prices. — Daniel Yergin, Time, 20 June 2026

Thus, the most straightforward attempt to unscramble the omelet faltered. — Quanta Magazine, 8 Aug. 2025

Cryptographic keys scramble data so that only someone with the correct key can unscramble it. — Yashas Hariprasad, Space.com, 6 Aug. 2025

Cryptographic keys scramble data so that only someone with the correct key can unscramble it. — Yashas Hariprasad, The Conversation, 1 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1920, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for unscramble

• amble
• bramble
• gamble
• ramble
• scramble
• preamble

Kids Definition

unscramble

verb

un·​scram·​ble ˌən-ˈskram-bəl 

ˈən-

: to make orderly or clear again

trying to unscramble a mix-up with the test scores

unscramble a radio message