Synonyms of unlock

unlock

verb

ˌən-ˈläk 

as in to unleash

to set free (from a state of being held in check)

that last insult unlocked her tongue, and she finally said what she really thought

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unleash
• loosen
• release
• let go
• express
• loose
• unloose
• uncork
• liberate
• unloosen
• emancipate
• free
• enfranchise
• air
• unbind
• manumit
• unchain
• unshackle
• uncage
• unfetter
• spring
• take out
• discharge
• unmoor
• vent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• contain
• hold
• control
• check
• regulate
• inhibit
• restrain
• govern
• constrain
• curb
• rein (in)
• tame
• smother
• bind
• confine
• bridle
• shackle
• handcuff
• hamper
• trammel
• manacle
• enchain
• fetter
• halter

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of unlock

What if, by anticipating the regulatory frameworks by a few years, companies could also unlock more business-minded features? — Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026

The low-carbon and hydrogen energy project will unlock a low-carbon economy and slash emissions from industries in northwest England and north Wales. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026

The boy who was paralyzed was about a block and a half from where the shooting erupted and was unlocking a Lime scooter when the stray bullet hit him, according to the court documents. — ABC News, 8 Oct. 2026

All of these are unlocking parts of the city that many daytrippers never venture to. — Mary Holland, Robb Report, 8 Oct. 2026