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

Knowing that agile, autonomous and supported marketing teams can perform in all these ways is great, but what about knowing how to unlock those benefits? —Andrea Fryrear, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025

Through donations and grants, the organization has been able to help unlock access to professional mental health services. —Matt Villano, CNN Money, 13 June 2025

Specific initiatives include Wasserman’s focus on developing proprietary commercial capabilities that unlock revenue opportunities for top talent, brands and rights holders. —Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 13 June 2025

Aside from protecting your phone’s communications from surveillance, be prepared in the event police seize your device and try to unlock it in search of incriminating evidence. —Andy Greenberg, Wired News, 12 June 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