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

• loose
• loosen
• release
• uncork
• unleash
• unloose
• unloosen

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

To unlock the real value of AI agents, businesses need to move toward a single source of truth: a structured, clean and continuously updated view of their consumer universe. —Steve Phillips, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025

But the game is changed when the founder of Prodigy unlocks a new advancement: hybrids (humanoid robots infused with human consciousness). —Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 1 June 2025

Just glide, blend, and repeat if necessary to unlock your hot girl summer. —Jackie Fields, People.com, 1 June 2025

The pass unlocks perks like buy-one-get-one deals, discounts and special surprises at participating attractions statewide. —Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 30 May 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