DECOMPRESS Synonyms: 41 Similar and Opposite Words

decompress

verb

ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres

as in to relax

to get rid of nervous tension or anxiety after she gets home from work, she needs some time to decompress before preparing dinner

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

tense (up)

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of decompress Right now, everyone is decompressing from the season that just ended. —

Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 19 May 2026 Before resurfacing, the divers must stay in shallow water to decompress after ascending from the cave’s depths. —

Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 17 May 2026 The dead hang strengthens the shoulders and decompresses the spine, combating the effects of gravity over time. —

Saralyn Ward, Health, 15 May 2026 Private outdoor spaces — terraces, plunge pools or gardens — give guests room to breathe and decompress between programmed activities. —

Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for decompress

Recent Examples of Synonyms for decompress

relax

Verb

Richards, who began relaxing her hair at 13-years-old, echoes this.

— Annie Blay-Tettey, Allure, 29 May 2026
The important thing with knowing the danger is to accept it and relax.

— Greg O'Keeffe, New York Times, 29 May 2026