The term "closing around" implies an action of enclosing or surrounding something or someone. Some antonyms for this phrase might include "opening up" or "expanding outwards," signifying a movement or action towards a more open or expansive state. Another opposite could be "drawing away" or "retracting," indicating a movement or action away from a previously enclosed or surrounded space. Additionally, "disengaging" or "separating" might serve as antonyms for "closing around," as they suggest a process of breaking apart or creating distance between individuals or objects. Ultimately, the antonyms for "closing around" all emphasize movement towards a more open, separated, or expanded state.