'unfurl' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'reverse' and the verb 'furl' meaning 'to roll or fold up neatly'.

'furl' changed from the Old French word 'ferler' and eventually became the modern English word 'furl'.

Initially, it meant 'to roll up neatly', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to spread out or open'.