Definition

To take off or remove the coverings or wrappings from something.

Example

The doctor decided to unswathe the bandages to check the wound.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they unswathe the mummy in that documentary?

Yeah, it was fascinating to watch!

I didn't realize how many layers they had to remove.

Right? It must have taken a lot of time and care.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsheathe is formed from "un-" (meaning not or opposite) and "swathe" (from Old English "swathian", meaning to wrap or bind). The word "unswathe" means to unwrap or remove the binding or covering.

Memory Tip

Think of 'un-' meaning not or opposite, and 'swathe' meaning to wrap. So, unswathe means to take off the wrapping.

Visually Confused Words