Definition

To unwind something that is wound up, like a film or a thread, from a reel or similar device.

Example

He began to unreel the long cable from the spool.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Could you help me unreel this old film?

Sure! I’ve never done that before, but it sounds interesting.

It's a bit tricky, but we just need to be careful with the tape.

Got it! Let’s see if we can unreel it without any mess.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unreel → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not or opposite of) and "reel" (from Old French *reler*, meaning to wind or to roll). The word "unreel" means to unwind or to let something out that was previously rolled up or wound tightly.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' unwinding something ('un-') that was previously 'rolled' ('reel'). This helps you remember that 'unreel' means to let something out or unwind it.

Visually Confused Words