unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk 

unlocked; unlocking; unlocks

transitive verb

1

: to unfasten the lock of : open the lock on

Can you unlock the car for me?

2

: open, undo

unlock the padlock

3

: to free from restraints or restrictions

The shock unlocked a flood of tears.

4

: to furnish a key to : disclose

cracked the code to unlock the message

intransitive verb

: to become unfastened or freed from restraints

Synonyms of unlock

• unleash
• loosen
• release

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 device in your pocket that pays for your coffee, unlocks your front door, and holds the second factor that guards everything else. — Ryan Pettit, Time, 7 July 2026

The door was unlocked, so the officers went inside and found Williams lying face down on a bed, shot several times. — David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 6 July 2026

For scientists, the milestone promises the enticing potential of unlocking secrets of the universe that have long remained elusive. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 7 July 2026

Resolving a dispute—one that unlocks $300 billion in regional energy resources — should therefore be in both countries’ interest. — Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

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