Decompressed

Decompressed is the past participle of the verb decompress. It generally means released from compression or expanded from a previously compact state. The term can describe physical systems that are no longer under high pressure, data that has been expanded back to its original form, or a state of relief after tension. Etymologically, it derives from de- (removal) and compressus (compressed).

In computing and digital media, decompression refers to restoring compressed data to its original size and form. This is achieved with algorithms such as DEFLATE, LZ77, and Huffman coding, used in ZIP, GZIP, and other formats. Decompressed data is larger than its compressed representation and is typically ready for use or display.

In the physical and scientific sense, decompression describes the release of pressure in gases or vessels. A decompressed gas expands as pressure drops. In diving medicine, decompression is the controlled ascent process that allows inert gases dissolved in body tissues to be released gradually to prevent decompression sickness. In everyday language, to decompress means to relax and reduce mental or emotional strain after a period of stress.