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Definition of uncompress

uncompress

/ˌʌnkəmˈprɛs/
un · com · press
Adjective:uncompressed
•
Past Simple:uncompressed
•
Past Participle:uncompressed
•
Present Participle:uncompressing
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uncompress Lexical Profile

uncompress Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To restore a compressed computer file or digital data stream to its original size and format.

Example

"You will need to uncompress the downloaded archive before you can run the installation program."

2

To release from physical pressure or compression, or to return to an original, expanded physical state.

Example

"Give the foam mattress a full day to uncompress and regain its shape after removing the plastic wrap."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for uncompress
Antonyms
View all antonyms for uncompress

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'decompress' is preferred in physics, medicine, and general contexts, 'uncompress' is frequently used interchangeably with 'decompress' in computing to describe restoring compressed digital files.

• Rhymes for uncompress

• Nearby Words

uncomprehending
uncomprehendingly
uncomprehensive
uncompress
uncompressed
uncompromising
uncompromisingly

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Uncompress. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/uncompress
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