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.
Decades of sidelining this relic have unlocked markets to reward efficiency, innovation and scale — delivering genuine consumer wins at the checkout line. Stephen Moore, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026 Reaching Europe’s elite competition will significantly boost United’s bank balance, unlocking a wider range of transfer options for what is another important market. Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 23 Apr. 2026 The collaboration kicks off a new Happy Meal, which includes a special box, one of 12 collectible character toys (two new characters will be rolled out every week); an activity book and a QR code that unlocks an interactive game that involves saving Hawkins from monsters. Erin Clements, PEOPLE, 23 Apr. 2026 Yet if oil prices stay elevated, Ong thinks that will unlock new offshore projects around the world. Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 23 Apr. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Unlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unlock. Accessed 27 Apr. 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

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