To decompress means to release pressure or tension, like air escaping from a balloon. When deep-sea divers return to the surface after exploring underwater, they must decompress slowly, letting their bodies adjust gradually to the normal air pressure at sea level. Rising too quickly can be dangerous because their blood contains compressed gases that need time to safely return to normal.

The word also describes what people do when they need to relax and recover from stress. After a hard day at school filled with tests and presentations, you might need to decompress by reading a book, playing outside, or just sitting quietly. Athletes decompress after intense competitions. Your parents might decompress after a busy week at work by taking a walk or watching a movie.

When you decompress, you actively release the built-up tension and pressure you've been carrying, like slowly letting air out of an over-inflated tire until it reaches the right pressure. Some people decompress by talking with friends, others by spending time alone. Everyone has their own way of letting that pressure escape so they can feel normal and balanced again.