unbends
Becomes less rigid
Unbends means to straighten something that was bent, or to relax from a stiff or formal manner.
A person who unbends becomes less reserved or more approachable: After a few drinks, she unbends and tells stories.
Physically, you might unbend a paper clip or unbend your knees after crouching.
The word suggests releasing tension—whether in posture, material, or demeanor.
Make linear or orderly
- alignArrange in a row
- flattenMake level or smooth
- levelHorizontal or uniform position
- unfoldSpread open from closed
unroll · uncurl · extend · smooth · true · rectify · correct · adjust
Release accumulated tension
- decompressRelease stored pressure
- loosenReduce tension or grip
- softenMake less firm
- mellowSoft, ripe, relaxed
calm · soothe · ease · destress · release · let go · chill · repose
Moderately heated, or friendly
- softenMake less firm
- open upReveal inner thoughts
- relentCease resistance or severity
- yieldProduce or relinquish
defrost · melt · loosen up · come around · lighten up · approachable · friendlier · sociable
straighten
Make linear or orderly
unfold · unroll · uncurl · extend · smooth · true · rectify · correct · adjust · neaten
unwind
Release accumulated tension
- decompressRelease stored pressure
- loosenReduce tension or grip
- softenMake less firm
mellow · calm · soothe · ease · destress · release · let go · chill · repose · leisure
warm
Moderately heated, or friendly
yield · defrost · melt · loosen up · come around · lighten up · approachable · friendlier · sociable · genial