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

Thankfulness unlocks creativity, fosters connection, and illuminates paths forward, even in the darkest of times. —Chris Westfall, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2024

Simply take a quiz to unlock your regimen, from masks and conditioners to hair oils and curl creams. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 28 Nov. 2024

Black Friday – November 29 Use Code: at checkout to unlock your savings! —Kilty Cleary, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024

Aside from this, premium customers can unlock access to standard LLC filing, compliance, EIN filing, operating agreement filing and business document templates. —Jasmin Suknanan, CNBC, 27 Nov. 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