decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

decompressed; decompressing; decompresses

transitive verb

1

: to release from pressure or compression

2

: to convert (something, such as a compressed file or signal) to an expanded or original size

intransitive verb

: to undergo release from pressure

especially : relax

need a week off to decompress

decompression

ˌdē-kəm-ˈpre-shən 

noun

Synonyms

• chill
• chill out [slang]
• de-stress
• loosen up
• mellow (out)
• relax
• unwind
• wind down

Examples of decompress in a Sentence

Once pressure was released, the vertebrae decompressed.

The file must be decompressed before it can be read.

Recent Examples on the Web

Focus on caring for yourself and finding a calm center to decompress. —Stephanie Sengwe, Peoplemag, 9 June 2024

But what does an actual Real Housewives cast member, mother of three, wife, and businesswoman turn to in order to decompress? —Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 5 June 2024

Cutting with a rolling cutter or a rocker knife will crush and decompress the cornicione (the puffy crust edge). —Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 28 May 2024

The Wellness Room, with massage chairs, napping pods, art area and lounge, and yoga is open to students as a place to relax and decompress. —Nicole Gregory, Orange County Register, 13 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

decompress

verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

1

: to release from pressure or compression

2

: to convert (as a computer file) from compressed form to an expanded or original size

decompression

-ˈpresh-ən 

noun

Medical Definition

decompress

transitive verb

de·​com·​press ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres 

: to release from pressure or compression