Decompress — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

verb /ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres/ de·com·press

Meaning & Definition of Decompress

Decompress (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
  3. to undergo release from pressure; especially, relax

Decompress (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. to get rid of nervous tension or anxiety

    "after she gets home from work, she needs some time to decompress before preparing dinner"

    similar: chill, chill out (slang), de-stress, loosen up, mellow (out), relax, unwind, wind down, hang loose
    related: unbend, bask, kick back, loll, lounge, repose, rest, bum, dally, dawdle, dillydally, drone, footle, goof (off), hack (around), hang (around or out), idle, laze, loaf, vegetate, veg out, zone out, alleviate, comfort, ease, relieve, calm, compose, cool, quiet, settle
    opposite: tense (up)

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Decompress

The most common words with a similar meaning to Decompress:

Slang: chill out
chill, de-stress, loosen up, mellow (out), relax, unwind, wind down, hang loose

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Decompress

Words with the opposite meaning of Decompress:

tense (up)

Related Words for Decompress

unbend, bask, kick back, loll, lounge, repose, rest, bum, dally, dawdle, dillydally, drone, footle, goof (off), hack (around), hang (around or out), idle, laze, loaf, vegetate, veg out, zone out, alleviate, comfort, ease, relieve, calm, compose, cool, quiet

Word Forms of Decompress

Inflections: decompressed, decompressing, decompresses

Derived words: decompression (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Decompress

First known use: 1905t

Frequently Asked Questions about Decompress

What does "Decompress" mean?

"Decompress" means to release from pressure or compression. As a verb, it is defined as: to release from pressure or compression.

What is another word for "Decompress"?

Other words for "Decompress" include chill, chill out, de-stress, loosen up, mellow (out), relax, unwind and wind down. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Decompress" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Decompress"?

There are 40 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Decompress". Common alternatives include chill, chill out, de-stress, loosen up, mellow (out), relax, unwind, wind down and hang loose.

What is the opposite of "Decompress"?

Antonyms of "Decompress" include tense (up).

How do you use "Decompress" in a sentence?

Examples of "Decompress" in a sentence: "after she gets home from work, she needs some time to decompress before preparing dinner".

Is "Decompress" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Decompress" is a verb.

How do you pronounce "Decompress"?

"Decompress" is pronounced /ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres/ and divided into syllables as de·com·press.

What is the origin of the word "Decompress"?

First known use: 1905t.