1
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
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

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3
as in to bloom
to produce flowers the rosebud unfolded literally overnight

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4

Examples 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 However, these efforts often unfolded more as a public relations exercise than genuine commitment, which ultimately fueled significant pushback (particularly in the U.S.), primarily from conservative political interests and business sectors that viewed ESG as threatening financial returns. Dr. Alex Gold, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 The movie unfolds as Shelly and the rest of the dancers are told that the new owners of the casino are closing the show. Marc Malkin, Variety, 9 Dec. 2024 As the situation unfolds, the FDP faces increasing pressure to restore its credibility ahead of the election. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024 Meanwhile, at the titular agency, a crisis is unfolding. Ben Travers, IndieWire, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unfold 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unfold
Verb
  • Plans are underway to expand the facility in Cancún and build partnerships with hospitals and research institutions across the globe.
    William Mullane, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024
  • Vacancies have risen because apartment supply is expanding and demand has fallen as consumers worry about the economy and inflation.
    Andrew Khouri, Los Angeles Times, 16 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • As for what’s next, the band will be touring hard into the new year, but will take a break in January to record their sixth full-length, again with Kenny Beats and Radiohead producer Nigel Godrich, one that doubtless will evolve the band’s sound even further.
    Jem Aswad, Variety, 13 Dec. 2024
  • As another new year approaches, businesses in every industry are reevaluating their priorities to adapt to evolving market demands and consumer expectations.
    Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 13 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Poinsettias are native to Mexico and bloom in the winter months.
    Jackie Nance-Sons, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Likewise, the dusty, dun colors of Gaza contrast with the snowy winter and blooming spring of D.C. seen from Zuaiter’s window.
    Alissa Simon, Variety, 7 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • The photos appear to have been taken from a camera in a cab, which authorities believe the suspect boarded after the shooting and show him wearing a blue medical mask and a hooded jacket.
    John Bacon, USA TODAY, 9 Dec. 2024
  • Calcium and milk proteins also appear to regulate appetite and energy intake.
    Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 8 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Even if the owner extends beyond his comfort zone to retain Bregman — which remains a legitimate possibility — Tucker exists in a totally different echelon.
    Chandler Rome, The Athletic, 10 Dec. 2024
  • When the yacht is anchored, the gunwales around the stern flip down and the platform extends down into the water (ideal for tender operations), for an excellent waterfront living area.
    Katia Damborsky, Robb Report, 9 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • As businesses continue to take advantage of AI in their operations and decision-making, its importance grows.
    Tyler Shepherd, USA TODAY, 16 Dec. 2024
  • In the college courtyard, after the people had all gone home for the day, the roses remained, still growing at their own stately pace.
    Daisy Hildyard, The New Yorker, 15 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Peach trees may start flowering but don’t worry there are plenty of buds for normal fruit set. 41.
    Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Nov. 2024
  • And when that happens, all sorts of positive change can flower.
    Neena Newberry, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • But the map shows that Americans living in the North and those at higher elevations are the most likely to see snow on Christmas morning.
    Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024
  • November job growth came in better than expected Friday, and data due Wednesday could show that inflation is still higher than the Fed prefers.
    Jacob Pramuk, CNBC, 9 Dec. 2024

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Cite this Entry

“Unfold.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unfold. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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