unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk How to pronounce unlock (audio)
unlocked; unlocking; unlocks
Synonyms of unlocknext

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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Faustian parables unlock more interesting connotations when considered not in terms of politics, but of art. Literary Hub, 14 Jan. 2026 The move ends Verizon’s long-standing requirement to automatically unlock devices 60 days after activation. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 13 Jan. 2026 Qureshi was tracked down through surveillance camera footage which allegedly showed a hooded figure unlocking the front door and entering the residence. Samira Asma-Sadeque, PEOPLE, 13 Jan. 2026 But maybe the Spurs’ player development system can unlock something with him in the next 10 months before the team would need to make a choice on his fourth-year option. Sam Vecenie, New York Times, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unlock

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unlock was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unlock. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

unlock

verb
un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk How to pronounce unlock (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on unlock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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