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unfurl

Unfurl (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/ʌnˈfɜrl/

What does unfurl mean?

To open or spread out something that was previously rolled up, folded, or tightly bound.
"The new leaves on the branches unfurl with the arrival of spring."

Detailed Meaning of Unfurl

It typically involves extending or unveiling an object, such as a flag, sail, banner, or any flexible material that can be expanded. When something unfurls, it undergoes a deliberate or natural process of unfolding and revealing its full size or shape. This action often conveys a sense of expansion, liberation, or display, as if releasing or showcasing something that was previously concealed or contained. Unfurling can be observed in various contexts, such as unfurling a banner during a celebration, unfurling a scroll to reveal its contents, or even metaphorically describing the unfolding of events or ideas. Overall, the verb "unfurl" emphasizes the act of unfolding or opening up something, whether physically or metaphorically, to expose its full extent or potential.

Example Sentences for Unfurl

1. A sunrise beckons; flowers unfurl, embracing the light, vivid and pure.
2. Amidst morning dew, petals unfurl, revealing nature’s intricate art.
3. Wind whispers softly, sails unfurl; the journey at sea begins anew.
4. Dawn breaks; leaves unfurl, breathing life into the silent woods.
5. In the garden's hush, blossoms unfurl, waking to the tender sun.
6. Under the moon's gaze, waves unfurl, painting tales of the night.

Origin and Etymology of Unfurl

The verb 'unfurl' can be understood by examining its root word, 'furl.' In this term, the prefix 'un-' is employed to reverse or negate the action represented by 'furl.' 'Furl' has its origins in the Middle English word 'furlen,' which means 'to roll up' or 'to secure by rolling.' The exact etymology of 'furl' traces back to Old French 'forreler' and possibly to Old Norse 'fyrla.' Over time, 'furl' evolved in the English language to describe the act of tightly rolling up or folding something, often to secure it. Consequently, 'unfurl' signifies the opposite, denoting the action of opening or spreading out something that was previously rolled up, folded, or tightly bound. Its etymology is deeply rooted in the historical development of 'furl' and its association with the rolling and unrolling of objects or materials.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb unfurl:

roll up

wrap

unfurl

fold

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Unfurl

1. With grace, the banners unfurl, heralding a new reign of peace.
2. Stars twinkle; dreams unfurl, weaving the tapestry of night.
3. In silent reverence, prayers unfurl, ascending to the heavenly skies.
4. As the melody plays, hearts unfurl, unfolding tales of love untold.
5. With the sun’s kiss, mountains unfurl, basking in morning’s golden hue.
6. Take a step back, let the plans unfurl naturally.
7. With a sharp tug, I help the sail unfurl in the wind.
8. As the dawn arrives, flowers unfurl to greet the sun.
9. We watch as banners unfurl in the breeze, signaling the start of the festival.
10. Sit with me on the bench and see the world unfurl before our eyes.
11. After the hibernation, the ferns unfurl in the forest, painting the landscape green.
12. The petals of the lotus unfurl at the first light of day.
13. With the applause, the artists on stage unfurl the painted canvas.
14. Her words unfurl, bringing clarity to the complex situation.
15. The map unfurl on the table as they plan the road trip.
16. In the desert, the rattlesnake lets its coiled body unfurl before striking.
17. As the parade starts, dancers unfurl large silk ribbons in an array of colors.
18. The flags on the poles unfurl as the national anthem plays.
19. The architect watched as the blueprints unfurl onto the drafting table.
20. Upon touching water, the seed pods unfurl, releasing seeds into the river.
21. As the meeting commences, the CEO lets the company's plans unfurl to all present.
22. With the first rains, the dried grass on the hills unfurl, transforming the brown to green.
23. With a single command, the soldiers unfurl the plan of attack.
24. In the heart of the rainforest, the myriad of life forms unfurl their existence in a symphony of color and sound.