decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
decompressed; decompressing; decompresses

transitive verb

1
: to release from pressure or compression
2
: to convert (something, such as a compressed file or signal) to an expanded or original size

intransitive verb

: to undergo release from pressure
especially : relax
need a week off to decompress
decompression noun

Examples of decompress in a Sentence

Once pressure was released, the vertebrae decompressed. The file must be decompressed before it can be read.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Consider these steps: • Give yourself time to decompress and reflect before jumping into new ventures. Rem Oculee, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 Some animals need a day or two to decompress and adjust to their new surroundings, according to the Animal Humane Society. David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Feb. 2025 The property has a basketball hoop for kids and sweeping mountain views for those still decompressing from street life. Calmatters, The Mercury News, 26 Feb. 2025 There were families seated on plush sofas around a fireplace, decompressing after a day of skiing and enjoying artisanal hot chocolates with Oreo cupcakes. Denny Lee, Travel + Leisure, 27 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decompress

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decompress was in 1905

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Cite this Entry

“Decompress.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decompress. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

decompress

verb
de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
1
: to release from pressure or compression
2
: to convert (as a computer file) from compressed form to an expanded or original size
decompression noun

Medical Definition

decompress

transitive verb
de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
: to release from pressure or compression
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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