unzip

UK: ʌnˈzɪp | US: ʌnˈzɪp

Definition

  1. vt. to open or release by undoing a zipper

  2. vt. (computing) to decompress a compressed file

Structure
un <reverse action>zip <fastener>
Etymology

The word "unzip" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-", meaning "not" or "reverse action") with "zip" (a 20th-century onomatopoeic term for the sound of a fast-moving fastener). Originally tied to physical zippers, its usage expanded in computing to describe file decompression, metaphorically "opening" compressed data.

Examples

  1. She carefully unzipped her jacket before entering the warm room.

  2. The software automatically unzips downloaded files.

  3. He struggled to unzip the tightly packed suitcase.

  4. To access the documents, you must first unzip the folder.

  5. The dress has a hidden zipper that’s easy to unzip.