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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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
Kids can burn off energy in the Pineapple Paradise water play area or find a quiet place to pause, decompress and reset in the Mussel Beach rest area. — Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 June 2026 Desirable aromatherapy scents include lavender that can help decompress, marjoram that targets the nervous system and neroli for reducing stress. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 2 July 2026
Noun
Recovery teams explored two of the three chambers on Friday, but the search was limited due to considerations over oxygen and decompression. — CBS News, 18 May 2026 After three months of rest and three innings in the minors, McClanahan underwent radial nerve decompression surgery on his left triceps last August. — Tyler Kepner, New York Times, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for decompress
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decompress
relax
Verb
  • From adults-only pools to tranquil spas, these luxury resorts offer relaxing escapes tailored to travelers over 50.
    — Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 7 July 2026
  • Cable and telecom lobby groups submitted comments supporting the FCC plan to eliminate or relax various requirements.
    — Jon Brodkin, ArsTechnica, 6 July 2026
Definition of relax

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 8 Jul. 2026.

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