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 Broncos’ biggest offensive play of the night unlocked Evan Engram and showed off a budding chemistry between the tight end and quarterback Bo Nix. —Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 1 Dec. 2025

Amazon Prime members can unlock an array of exclusive sales to shop this Cyber Monday. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 1 Dec. 2025

Pre-registering now will set up you to unlock a $300 bonus offer when the app launches. —Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Nov. 2025

Almost everything on the website is 25% off right now, and Jenni Kayne members can unlock 30% off. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 30 Nov. 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