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 shift to apps deepened, rather than diluted, the customer relationship, unlocking always-on engagement, rich first-party data and a far faster cycle of product innovation. — Dana Dunne, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026

His development will be key for unlocking the multiple defense Leonard wants to deploy. — Sam Warren, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026

Tennessee’s licensing process is now the international benchmark for how to ensure fusion power plant ‘safety by design’ in a manner that can unlock the compelling economics of this transformational power generation technology. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026

Part of its plan to unlock the over 40-year-old market has been to leverage Geller’s power as a spokeswoman for her generation and invest in social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 31 Aug. 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