Unwrap: Definition, Usage & Example Sentences

Meaning 1：remove the wrapping from (unwrap)

unwrap 🔊

/ʌnˈræp/

vt.

To take the paper or cover off something, like a present.

Illustration of unwrapping a gift: hands tearing colorful paper off a box under a Christmas tree.

remove the wrapping from 🔊

➕

/rɪˈmuːv ðə ˈræpɪŋ frɒm/

vt.

To open something by taking off the material, such as paper or plastic, that is covering it.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Elementary

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Prefix ‘un-’ (reverse) + verb ‘wrap’ (to cover).

💡 Mnemonic

UN-do the WRAP-per to reveal what's inside.

📖 Example

On Christmas morning, the children couldn't wait to unwrap their presents under the tree. 🔊 On Christmas morning, the children were very excited to remove the wrapping from their presents under the tree.

🔗 Collocations

unwrap a gift – to remove the decorative paper from a present

unwrap a package – to open a parcel by removing its outer covering

unwrap carefully – to remove the covering slowly and gently to avoid damage

🔄 Synonyms

unpack (vt.) – to remove items from their packaging or container

uncover (vt.) – to remove a cover or lid from something

open (vt.) – to make something accessible by removing its closure or cover

🚫 Antonyms

wrap (vt.) – to cover something with paper or material

cover (vt.) – to place something over an object

package (vt.) – to put something into a parcel or box for protection or delivery

🌱 Derivatives

unwrapped (adj.) – not covered by wrapping; having had the wrapping removed

unwrapping (v.) – the act of removing wrapping from something

📖 Cultural Story

The word's modern cultural resonance is strongly tied to gift-giving occasions like Christmas, where the act of unwrapping a present is a central ritual of anticipation and discovery.