Definition

To unwind or release something that is wound around a spool, such as film or thread.

Example

The technician will unspool the film before projecting it onto the screen.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you seen how they unspool the film at the cinema?

Yeah, it's fascinating to watch them do that!

I love how they make it look so effortless when they unspool it.

Right? It really adds to the whole experience of watching a movie.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unspool → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not or to reverse) and "spool" (from Old English *spole*, meaning a cylindrical device for winding thread or wire). The word "unspool" means to reverse the action of winding something onto a spool, effectively letting it out or unwinding it.

Memory Tip

Think of 'un-' meaning to reverse and 'spool' as a device that winds up thread. So, unspooling is like letting the thread out from the spool.

Visually Confused Words