uncurl
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ʌnˈkɜːrl/
KK: /ʌnˈkɜrl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become straight or flat after being curled or twisted.
Example
The leaves began to uncurl as the sun warmed the ground.
Tense Forms
Past: uncurled
Past Participle: uncurled
Conversation
Look at those ferns in the garden; they really uncurl beautifully in spring.
Yeah, it’s amazing how they transform over time!
I love watching them uncurl as the weather warms up.
Me too! It’s like nature’s little show every year.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
unwind
unroll
expand
Antonyms
curl
coil
twist
transitive verb
Definition
To straighten something that is curled or coiled, making it flat or extended.
Example
She decided to uncurl the ribbon before wrapping the gift.
Tense Forms
Past: uncurled
Past Participle: uncurled
Conversation
I think I need to uncurl after that intense workout.
Yeah, stretching really helps with that.
I always feel so stiff afterwards, especially in my back.
Root Explanation
Uncurl → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not or opposite of) and "curl" (from Old English "cyrle", meaning to twist or coil). The word "uncurl" means to reverse the action of curling, or to make something straight that was previously twisted.
Memory Tip
Think of 'un-' meaning not or opposite, and 'curl' meaning to twist. So, when you uncurl something, you are making it not twisted.
Visually Confused Words
upcurl
unfurl
encurl
unicursal
undercurl
uncourtly
curl