'unwind' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'unwindan,' where 'un-' meant 'reverse' and 'windan' meant 'to wind.'

'unwindan' transformed into the Middle English word 'unwinden,' and eventually became the modern English word 'unwind.'

Initially, it meant 'to reverse the winding of something,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to relax or relieve stress.'