decompress 1 of 2

verb

ˌdē-kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce decompress (audio)
Definition of decompressnext
as in to relax
to get rid of nervous tension or anxiety after she gets home from work, she needs some time to decompress before preparing dinner

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

decompression

2 of 2

noun

as in relaxation
freedom from activity or labor the waitstaff gets a welcome period of decompression between the lunch and dinner rushes

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decompress
Verb
Wearing them is a good way to decompress after a long workday or whenever a headache hits, as the goggles combine heat, vibration, and massage. — Siena Gagliano, Allure, 13 Mar. 2025 The latter feels particularly like what audiences are hungry for right now as cooking and lifestyle shows can be a way to decompress - even if some of the content might be more aspirational than practical. — Lisa Respers France, CNN, 4 Mar. 2025 Some animals need a day or two to decompress and adjust to their new surroundings, according to the Animal Humane Society. — David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Feb. 2025 The property has a basketball hoop for kids and sweeping mountain views for those still decompressing from street life. — Calmatters, The Mercury News, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decompress
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decompress
  1. relax
  2. relaxation
  3. rest
Verb
  • The emphasis is on unplugging from TVs and phones and relaxing and reconnecting.
    — Cynthia J Drake, Southern Living, 14 Apr. 2025
  • There’s also a pre-treatment scalp massage that helps guests relax for their massage, facial, or other experience.
    — Robin Raven, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025
Definition of relax
Noun
  • There's a mix of on-the-beach relaxation (pet-friendly!) and off-the-beach amusements, such as go-kart tracks, a handful of mini-golf courses, a number of ice cream shops, and good restaurants.
    — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Try relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
    — Mary Choy, Verywell Health, 16 Apr. 2025
Definition of relaxation
Noun
  • Cooper was good about giving Vasilevskiy, who has one Vezina (2018-19), one Conn Smythe (2021) and a pair of Cup rings to his credit, sufficient rest as Jonas Johansson made 18 starts.
    — Tom Layberger, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
  • At the time, a rep for the band told media outlets that Starkey was advised to take blood thinners for two weeks and rest to prevent additional clots.
    — Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 19 Apr. 2025
Definition of rest

Browse Nearby Words

decomposition
decompress
decompressed
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Cite this Entry

“Decompress.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decompress. Accessed 26 Apr. 2025.

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