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

Some automakers like Tesla regularly push free OTA updates to their vehicles, unlocking free new features, capabilities, and fixing errors and glitches on a routine basis. — Charles Singh, USA Today, 1 July 2026

The team believes the approach could unlock thousands of new superconductors and accelerate the search for materials suitable for large-scale energy and computing applications. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 30 June 2026

Their strength lies in their ability to interpret data and connect the dots across the business to unlock stability and innovation. — Jeppe Rindom, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Plus, members can unlock perks like gas savings and loyalty rewards along the way. — Kayla Rivera, AJC.com, 30 June 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