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verb un·pack \ˌən-ˈpak\

Simple Definition of unpack

  • : to take something out of a suitcase, box, etc.

  • : to make (something) easier to understand by breaking it up into smaller parts that can be examined separately

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of unpack

  1. transitive verb
  2. 1 a :  to remove the contents of <unpack a suitcase> b :  unburden, reveal <must…unpack my heart with words — Shakespeare>

  3. 2 :  to remove or undo from packing or a container <unpacked his gear>

  4. 3 :  to analyze the nature of by examining in detail :  explicate <unpack a concept>

  5. intransitive verb
  6. :  to engage in unpacking a container



Examples of unpack in a sentence

  1. It's been a year since I moved here and I still haven't unpacked all of my books.

  2. I unpacked my suitcase as soon as I arrived home.

  3. By the time we got to the hotel, I was too tired to unpack.

  4. She's good at unpacking complex concepts.

15th Century

First Known Use of unpack

15th century

Rhymes with unpack


UNPACK Defined for Kids


verb un·pack \ˌən-ˈpak\

Definition of unpack for Students



  1. 1 :  to separate and remove things that are packed <Will you unpack the groceries?>

  2. 2 :  to open and remove the contents of <I unpacked my suitcase.>

Seen and Heard

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