Opened something that was folded; or revealed/developed gradually over time.
From Old English 'unfealdan,' combining 'un-' (reversal) with 'fold' (to bend). Used both literally for physical objects and metaphorically for stories or situations that develop.
This word captures a beautiful two-way meaning—the origami unfolding into a paper crane is the same word as a mystery unfolding in a detective story!
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