# unfolded

/ənˈfoʊɫdɪd/ (US) · /ʌnfˈəʊldɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unfolded
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

to happen or develop over time. You use this to describe how a story, a plan, or a situation slowly becomes clear as it continues.

For teachers: to develop or happen gradually; to reveal itself over a period of time. Often describes the progression of a narrative, event, or sequence of facts.

## Examples

- We watched as the drama unfolded on the news.
- The police waited for several hours to see how the hostage situation unfolded before taking action.
- As the investigation unfolded, it became increasingly apparent that the initial findings were merely the tip of a much larger and more complex conspiracy.

## Usage notes

- Intransitive when describing events happening; transitive when physically opening something folded.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.