Unfold Meaning

UK /ʌnˈfəʊld/
US /ʌnˈfoʊld/
Word Definition
unfold meaning

Unfold Definition & Usage

verb

To open or spread out from a folded position.

Examples

  • "She carefully unfolded the letter, eager to read its contents."
  • "The map unfolded in his hands, revealing the entire city layout."
  • "As the curtain unfolded, the audience gasped at the elaborate set."
  • "He unfolded the blanket and spread it across the grass for their picnic."
  • "The flower began to unfold, revealing its vibrant petals."
verb

To reveal or disclose something, often gradually or over time.

Examples

  • "The mystery slowly unfolded as the detective uncovered more clues."
  • "Over the years, her plan unfolded beautifully, leading to her success."
  • "As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that they had very different opinions."
  • "The plot of the novel unfolds in unexpected ways, keeping readers on edge."
  • "Their relationship unfolded over many months, with each conversation deepening their bond."
verb

To develop or progress over time, often in a structured way.

Examples

  • "The project unfolded smoothly as each phase was completed on schedule."
  • "The strategy unfolded as expected, with each milestone bringing the team closer to their goal."
  • "Their marketing campaign unfolded with a clear narrative, engaging audiences at every step."
  • "The business plan unfolded during the presentation, highlighting key growth areas."
  • "As the negotiations unfolded, both parties began to find common ground."

Cultural Context

The word 'unfold' originates from the Middle English 'unfolden', derived from Old English 'unfaldian', meaning to open or spread. It has both a literal physical meaning (to open something folded) and a more abstract meaning of revealing or developing something over time.

The Mystery of the Unfolding Letter

Story

The Mystery of the Unfolding Letter

One rainy evening, as Sarah sat in her dimly lit study, a letter arrived for her. The envelope was old, yellowed with age, and had a wax seal she had never seen before. With a sense of curiosity, she unfolded the letter slowly, the crinkling sound filling the quiet room. As she read the first line, her heart raced—it was a clue from her long-lost uncle, leading her on a journey that would soon unfold before her. Days passed, and with every piece of the puzzle Sarah discovered, the mystery unfolded more and more. What had begun as a simple letter turned into a web of secrets, with each discovery revealing another layer. It was as though the very fabric of her past was unfolding in front of her, one page at a time. By the time Sarah had pieced everything together, she realized the journey itself had transformed her, unfolding her own potential in ways she had never imagined.

The Mystery of the Unfolding Letter