unfurl Definition
- 1to open or spread out something that has been rolled or folded
- 2to become opened or spread out
Using unfurl: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "unfurl" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The sails unfurled as the wind picked up.
Example
She unfurled the map to show us the way.
Example
The banner unfurled in the wind.
Example
The flower petals unfurled in the sunlight.
unfurl Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with unfurl
to spread one's wings, often used metaphorically to mean to take flight or to begin a new endeavor
Example
After years of working for others, she finally unfurled her wings and started her own business.
Example
The soldiers unfurled the flag at the start of the parade.
to release the sails of a ship, allowing them to catch the wind and propel the vessel forward
Example
As soon as they unfurled the sails, the ship began to move.
Origins of unfurl
from Old English 'un-' meaning 'not' + 'furlen' meaning 'to roll up'
Summary: unfurl in Brief
The verb 'unfurl' [ʌnˈfɜːrl] means to open or spread out something that has been rolled or folded. It can be used literally, as in 'She unfurled the map to show us the way,' or metaphorically, as in 'After years of working for others, she finally unfurled her wings and started her own business.' 'Unfurl' is often associated with nautical contexts, such as 'unfurl the sails,' but it can also refer to the opening of flowers or banners.
