German word

entfalten

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛntˈfaltən/

Meaning

  • verbunfold

Example

Ich entfalte die Karte.

I unfold the map.

Illustration for entfalten (unfold)

More examples

In ihrem neuen Job kann sie ihre Kreativität entfalten.

In her new job, she can express her creativity.

Core concept

A folded map opens out, revealing more of what it contains as it spreads.

Common phrases

  • Potenzial entfalten

    develop potential

  • Kreativität entfalten

    express creativity

  • sich entfalten

    flourish

Similar words

sich entwickeln: Develop character or ability gradually through experience and learning.
wachsen: Increase in amount, extent, or physical size.

Definition in German

entfalten bedeutet, dass etwas, etwa eine Fähigkeit oder eine Wirkung, sichtbar wird und sich weiterentwickelt.

Word origin

Entfalten combines the prefix ent- with falten, meaning 'fold'; it first referred to undoing folds and later extended to developing abilities, effects, and other potential.

Usage tips

  • The reflexive form sich entfalten commonly describes a person, talent, or personality developing, while transitive entfalten takes an object such as a map or ability.

Other meanings

  • developverb
  • expressverb
  • flourishverb

Opposites

  • zusammenfaltenfoldverb
  • hemmenhinderverb

Related words

  • Entfaltungdevelopmentnoun
  • entfaltbarunfoldableadjective
  • Entfaltungsspielraumroom for developmentnoun

Word lists with this word