Unwind
v.calm, joyfuleveryday
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.
Choose between these
3- everyday
unroll
a flat material is opened from a roll
not when not for twisted thread or a coiled spring
- professional
uncoil
loops in a cable or rope are released
not when too physical for a mechanism or story
- professional
untwist
twisted strands are turned apart
not when does not fit every wound object
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.
Choose between these
4- playful
switch off
informal rest from mental demands is central
not when can imply disengagement from responsibility
- everyday
the general release of tension is enough
not when does not imply recovery after a demanding period
- warm
settle down
body and mind gradually become calm
not when may suggest prior misbehavior or excitement
- professional
mental pressure eases after intense work
not when jargon-like outside work or care settings
Said against
3- wind
- coil
- tense up
It naturally appears in
3- 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.
Where this comes from
- wiktionary, verb literal: undo something wound opens in a new tab for meaning 1 · retrieved 2026-07-26
- wiktionary, verb figurative: relax after tension opens in a new tab for meaning 2 · retrieved 2026-07-26
The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.