verb
unzip
Unzip (verb) means to open something by pulling apart its zip fastener. Example: “She unzipped her jacket as soon as she got inside.”
verb
1
To open something by pulling apart its zip fastener.
"She unzipped her jacket as soon as she got inside."
2
To decompress a computer file that has been compressed into a zip archive.
"You'll need to unzip the folder before you can open the photos."
How to use unzip
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo undo a zip fastener, or to decompress a computer zip file back to its original form.
Common pairings
unzip a file
unzip a jacket
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like unzip.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Third person singular
- unzips
- Past tense
- unzipped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You'll need to _____ the folder before you can open the photos.
Etymology
From un- (\"reversal\") plus zip.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
zip up
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “unzip” mean?
The word “unzip” means to open something by pulling apart its zip fastener. In plain terms, to undo a zip fastener, or to decompress a computer zip file back to its original form.
How do you use “unzip” in a sentence?
Here is “unzip” used in a sentence: “She unzipped her jacket as soon as she got inside.”
What is the opposite of “unzip”?
The opposite of “unzip” — its antonyms — is zip up.
What part of speech is “unzip”?
“Unzip” is a verb.
How many meanings does “unzip” have?
“Unzip” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to open something by pulling apart its zip fastener.
