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

So, what is the key to unlocking data’s full potential? —David Boice, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025

Dismounting, the ship’s captain unlocked the outer gate, and his men scurried into the courtyard, squeezing through the small door that led into the gunpowder room. —Andrew Lawler, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025

Apparently, meeting Heather unlocked something in him, and now his creative juices are really flowing. —Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2025

Looking ahead to the summer, when Clowney is healthy enough to return to the court, Fernandez believes the key to unlocking the former first-round pick’s potential starts with him continuing to improve his offensive efficiency. —C.j. Holmes, New York Daily News, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for unlock

• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock
• boardwalk
• catwalk
• cornstalk
• crosswalk
• deadlock
• feedstock
• fetlock
• flintlock
• goshawk

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