IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary
unwind
verb/ˌʌnˈwaɪnd/Band 7
Last updated 21 July 2026
In short
“unwind” is a Band 7 verb that means to relax after a period of work or tension. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.
Meaning
To relax after a period of work or tension.
Example sentences
Natural, spoken examples at the level an examiner rewards.
- “A holiday is the perfect chance to unwind.”
- “He unwinds by walking on the beach.”
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
relaxde-stresswind down
Antonyms
tense up
Collocations & common phrases
Word partners that make your usage sound natural — the difference between knowing a word and using it well.
Collocations
unwind after worka chance to unwind
Common phrases
unwind and relax
Related words
Explore more vocabulary
Frequently asked questions
What does “unwind” mean?
To relax after a period of work or tension.
How do you use “unwind” in a sentence?
For example: “A holiday is the perfect chance to unwind.”
What are some synonyms for “unwind”?
Synonyms include relax, de-stress, wind down.
Is “unwind” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
Yes. It is Band 7 vocabulary, and collocations such as unwind after work, a chance to unwind help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.
Next step
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