unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk How to pronounce unlock (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This aggressive approach by the Suns unlocks their next six drafts and breaks up their lone tradable first in 2031 into three firsts. Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025 Trump declared a national emergency over the U.S.-Mexico border, which unlocks federal funds to build the border wall and turn back more migrants. German Lopez, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2025 With approximately 33 million small businesses in the United States alone—accounting for 99.9% of all U.S. businesses, as reported by the U.S. Small Business Administration—enterprises that prioritize selling to small businesses can unlock sustainable growth and a competitive edge. Brandon Spear, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 And for Johnson, the potential spoils of unlocking a world of success that the Bears haven’t experienced in quite some time are immeasurable. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for unlock 

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of unlock was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near unlock

Cite this Entry

“Unlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unlock. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

unlock

verb
un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk How to pronounce unlock (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on unlock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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