Unfold, v.²

[UN-² 4 b + FOLD v.²] trans. To release (sheep) from a fold or folds.

1530.  Palsgr., 768/1. It is tyme to unfolde our shepe.

a. 1613.  Overbury, A Wife, etc. (1638), 172. She dares goe alone and unfold sheepe i’th’night.

1781.  Cowper, Retirem., 397. The boy, who … Unfolds his flock.