auswickeln

Auswickeln is a German verb that translates to "to unwrap" or "to uncoil." It describes the action of removing something from a wrapping or disentangling something that is coiled or wound up. The term is commonly used in everyday language to refer to the process of opening presents or packages. For example, one might say "Ich wickle das Geschenk aus" which means "I am unwrapping the gift."

Beyond its literal meaning, auswickeln can also be used figuratively. It can imply a process of revealing or disclosing something that was previously hidden or concealed. This figurative use often carries a sense of gradually bringing something to light, similar to how one might carefully unwrap a delicate item. In certain contexts, it can also refer to the process of a snake or other creature uncoiling itself.

The verb is derived from the verb "wickeln," which means "to wrap" or "to coil." The prefix "aus-" indicates removal or the completion of an action, thus reversing the act of wrapping or coiling. This makes "auswickeln" a direct antonym to "einwickeln" (to wrap up) or "aufwickeln" (to coil up). The pronunciation of "auswickeln" involves a distinct "aus" sound followed by the softer "wickeln."