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

Now he’s reunited with Rob Ezell, the offensive coordinator who recruited him and helped unlock his breakout 2024 season at South Alabama. — The Athletic College Football Staff, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

The six-episode show sees Mory, accompanied by pastry chef and friend Theó Segretin and guests such as Omar Sy, immerse himself in Japanese culture and gastronomy to unlock how to prepare the perfect bento. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 7 Sep. 2026

Justin Herbert enters a pivotal seventh NFL season, paired with new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel in a quest to finally unlock his full potential. — Los Angeles Times, 7 Sep. 2026

But the roommate managed to unlock the car and pull the woman out. — Idaho Statesman, 5 Sep. 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