unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk 

unlocked; unlocking; unlocks

transitive verb

1

: to unfasten the lock of

2

: open, undo

3

: to free from restraints or restrictions

the shock unlocked a flood of tears

4

: to furnish a key to : disclose

intransitive verb

: to become unfastened or freed from restraints

Synonyms

• 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

Hill would unlock a new level for the Pittsburgh offense. —Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025

This full day of live journalism will feature candid, on-the-record conversations designed to spark collaboration, bold thinking, and actionable solutions — unlocking one of the greatest social and economic opportunities of our time. —Semafor Events, semafor.com, 8 Sep. 2025

Eligibility could unlock cost savings, but action must be fast. —Eric Youngstrom, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

The question for every executive is this: What capabilities in your team could AI help unlock? —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2025

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