Meaning 1
To loosen or separate something that has been wound around itself.
Reach for it when Describing the physical reversal of winding in thread, cable, or a mechanism.
The technician unwound the damaged cable to inspect each turn.
Meaning 2
To let tension ease after work, stress, or concentrated effort.
Reach for it when Naming a gradual return to a calmer physical or mental state.
After the night shift, the nurses unwind over breakfast by the river.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| playful | ||
| everyday |
| |
| warm |
| |
| professional |
everyday
unroll
Fits when a flat material is opened from a roll
Not for twisted thread or a coiled spring
professional
uncoil
Fits when loops in a cable or rope are released
Not when too physical for a mechanism or story
professional
untwist
Fits when twisted strands are turned apart
Not when does not fit every wound object
playful
switch off
Fits when informal rest from mental demands is central
Not when can imply disengagement from responsibility
everyday
Fits when the general release of tension is enough
Not when does not imply recovery after a demanding period
warm
settle down
Fits when body and mind gradually become calm
Not when may suggest prior misbehavior or excitement
professional
Fits when mental pressure eases after intense work
Not when jargon-like outside work or care settings
unwind the thread
She will unwind the thread until the faded section appears.
time to unwind
A quiet walk home gave him time to unwind.
unwind after work
They unwind after work by tending the rooftop garden.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Commander Keane, Australian accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated
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