easy
Unfold the paper before you draw.
What does Unfold mean?
Unfold means to open out or happen step by step.
Dictionary definition
To unfold means to open something that was folded, or to happen gradually.
Example sentences
Unfold in a sentence
medium
The story began to unfold after the first clue appeared.
hard
As the investigation unfolded, each new detail helped readers understand the character's choice.
Writing practice
Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice unfold in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.
Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Unfold
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does unfold mean?
Unfold can mean physically open something folded or describe events developing over time.
Practice 2
Which word is a useful contrast for unfold?
Fold is a direct contrast when unfold means to open something folded.
Practice 3
Which sentence uses unfold correctly?
This sentence uses unfold to mean events developed gradually.
Practice complete
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Pronunciation coach
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Unfold
Voice settings
Sounds like
un · fohld · strongest beat: fohld
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordUnfold.
Partverb.
MeaningUnfold means to open out or happen step by step.
ExampleExample: Unfold the paper before you draw.
Word breakdown
2 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- un · fohld
- Strongest beat
- fohld
- Ending
- fohld
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on fohld.
Your turn
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Nice work—you practiced unfold.
Synonyms
Words like Unfold
Antonyms
Opposite words
foldUse when bending something into layers.
closeUse when shutting or bringing together.
Synonym practice
Want to practice unfold synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "Please unfold the paper before drawing," then compare close word choices. Practice unfold synonyms.
Word family
Unfold word family
Base word
fold
verb
unfold
To open out or develop gradually.
verb
unfolds
Opens out or develops.
verb
unfolded
Opened out or developed in the past.
verb
unfolding
Opening out or developing now.
Related words
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Student support
Understand Unfold
Hint for students
Unfold can mean open something folded, but in stories it often means events are revealed step by step.
Common mix-up
Do not think unfold only means opening paper. A plan, mystery, story, or event can also unfold over time.
Try it in class or at home
Write one sentence that shows unfold without using the word unfold. Then underline the clue words that show opening out or events happening step by step. Example: After the first witness spoke, the answer slowly became clearer. Clue words: first witness, slowly, became clearer Now try your own sentence. Ask: Does my sentence show something opening or developing gradually?
Teacher prompt
Ask students to explain this model sentence: "The story began to unfold after the first clue appeared." Why does unfold fit better than fold?
Learning activities
Practice Unfold and explore more word games
Cards labelled “Practice UNFOLD” keep this word in focus. Explore cards open games with other words.
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Sentence Builder
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