unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk 

unlocked; unlocking; unlocks

transitive verb

1

: to unfasten the lock of

2

: open, undo

3

: to free from restraints or restrictions

the shock unlocked a flood of tears

4

: to furnish a key to : disclose

intransitive verb

: to become unfastened or freed from restraints

Synonyms

• loose
• loosen
• release
• uncork
• unleash
• unloose
• unloosen

Examples of unlock in a Sentence

Could you unlock the door for me?

geneticists unlocking the secrets of DNA

The material's potential was unlocked only through extensive testing.

How can I unlock my computer if I've forgotten the password?

This class will unlock your creativity.

Recent Examples on the Web

The technological advancements under development today could unlock the momentum needed to realistically hit these targets. —Mirek Dušek, TIME, 26 June 2024

Eviction worries crowd out other fears On a blistering summer afternoon after that August visit, Balog unlocked the door of his 18-year-old Jeep Grand Cherokee to let me into the passenger seat. —Ethan Ward, USA TODAY, 26 June 2024

Create an account with the same email registered to your subscription to unlock access. —The Week Us, theweek, 26 June 2024

The parent company of brands including Travelodge, Ramada, Wingate, and La Quinta is offering a pass that will unlock 30 days of hotel stays over the next three months for just $499. —Bychris Morris, Fortune, 26 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk 

ˈən-

1

: to open or unfasten through release of a lock

unlock the door

the chest won't unlock

2

: to set free : release

unlock a flood of emotions

3

: to make known

scientists unlocking the secrets of nature