UNFOLD Synonyms: 93 Similar and Opposite Words

unfold

verb

ˌən-ˈfōld

Definition of unfold

as in to expand

to arrange the parts of (something) over a wider area carefully unfold that antique map so that it doesn't tear

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to evolve

to gradually become clearer or more detailed as the situation unfolded, it became clear that more help would be needed the movie became more interesting once the mystery began to unfold

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to bloom

to produce flowers the rosebud unfolded literally overnight

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to appear

to come into view the majestic landscape unfolded before us

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 unfold The production will follow the salmon through a landscape that has sustained Alaska Native peoples and communities for generations, and allows the story to unfold at the pace of the animals themselves, per the description. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 19 Aug. 2026 Here again, in this slim book, the narrative unfolds in fragments, every sentence drawing you deeper into the delights of language. — Amitava Kumar, New Yorker, 19 Aug. 2026 The culinary experience extends beyond the restaurants, from in-room dining to private meals by the shore, allowing the destination’s flavors to unfold at a slower, more personal pace. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 19 Aug. 2026 Hayden Panettiere's troubled relationship with on-and-off boyfriend Brian Hickerson had one final, unexpected chapter that is still unfolding. — Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unfold

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unfold

Verb

Earlier this month, Spotify announced plans to expand its own AI labeling, focusing on telling users when an artist is artificial rather than specific songs.

— James Peckham, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026
Longtime American soccer reporter Pablo Maurer’s story outlines a potential 20-team competition that expands the postseason field by two while also adding incentives for teams to finish higher in the table.

— Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of expand

Verb

Our business continues to evolve rapidly, and the best projects rarely follow a conventional path.

— Matt Grobar, Deadline, 17 Aug. 2026
As Peacock continues to test and evolve the program, NBCU said, additional rewards are expected to be added over time, including Universal Parks perks and experiences, NBCU content previews and early access to NBCU live events.

— Todd Spangler, Variety, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of evolve

Verb

By July and August, the mountainsides have turned green, wildflowers bloom across the alpine tundra, and Skagway is at its busiest as the cruise season reaches its peak.

— Bailey Berg, Travel + Leisure, 16 Aug. 2026
Check out the garden’s iris tracker to see when those purple and white beauties are blooming (usually late June).

— The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

Definition of bloom

Verb

Another explanation is that there could be changes over time in diagnosis and reporting, or there could be other biological factors underlying why this condition appears to be increasing.

— Faye Chiu, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026
Downsizing With brands like Slate entering the market, automakers appear to be hearing the call for cheaper options.

— Beth Livesay, AJC.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of appear

Verb

While the reform and opening-up era brought some efforts to distinguish the roles of the party and the state, Xi has extended the party’s supremacy across all areas of society.

— Sylvie Zhuang, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2026
The nomination was historic and was a record-extending 11th consecutive nomination.

— Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 16 Aug. 2026

Definition of extend

Verb

At the same time, consumer research shows there’s growing enthusiasm — especially among Gen Z — for affiliating with wellness and longevity-oriented brands.

— Amy O’Brien, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2026
But the stronger signal is commercial—Jurin has grown almost entirely on inbound interest, having stopped cold outreach in late 2024.

— Jurin AI Contributor, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of grow

Verb

Spring brings wildflowers to the mountain, while summer fills its alpine meadows with flowering herbs like oregano and thyme.

— Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2026
Floating Flowers Erin fills a container with tinted water to float favorite garden cuttings, including these Tuff Stuff hydrangea, purple petunias, and lime green flowering tobacco.

— Teresa Woodard, Midwest Living, 12 Aug. 2026

Definition of flower

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unfocused

unfold

unfolded

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Unfold.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unfold. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of unfold

verb

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