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

And when used in conjunction with other therapies, decompressing your spine with inversion can offer temporary relief for back pain, as well as a range of other benefits. —Samson McDougall, Health, 22 Oct. 2024

Easy ways to decompress Schedule time to do nothing. —Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 15 Oct. 2024

Support each other’s need to decompress Scheduling rest and honoring it is important and something couples can work on together. —Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 12 Sep. 2024

Some ideas are: Sit in a favorite chair or spot on the couch to decompress. —Jenna Autuori-Dedic, Parents, 8 Oct. 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