decompress
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌdiːkəmˈprɛs/
KK: /diˈkɒmprɛs/
intransitive verb
Definition
To return to a normal state after being under pressure, often used to describe relaxing or adjusting after stress or tension.
Example
After a long week at work, I like to decompress by spending time with friends.
Tense Forms
Past: decompressed
Past Participle: decompressed
Conversation
After that long hike, I really need to decompress.
I get that! A good movie could help you unwind.
Yeah, I just want to relax and forget about everything for a bit.
Sounds perfect! Let's grab some snacks and enjoy the film.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unwind
relax
loosen
Antonyms
tense
stress
tighten
transitive verb
Definition
To reduce or remove pressure or compression from something, often to return it to a normal state.
Example
After the dive, the team had to decompress slowly to avoid health risks.
Tense Forms
Past: decompressed
Past Participle: decompressed
Conversation
I really need to decompress after this long week at work.
I totally get that! What do you usually do to unwind?
I like to go for a walk or listen to music to help decompress my mind.
Root Explanation
Decompress → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "compress" (from Latin "comprimere", meaning to press together). The word means to release pressure or to reduce compression.
Memory Tip
Think of 'de-' meaning down or away, and 'compress' meaning to press together — so decompress means to release pressure or to let something expand.
Visually Confused Words
recompress
compress
precompress
empress
depress
compressor
compressed