Synonyms of unlock

unlock

verb

ˌən-ˈläk 

as in to unleash

to set free (from a state of being held in check)

that last insult unlocked her tongue, and she finally said what she really thought

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unleash
• loosen
• release
• let go
• express
• loose
• unloose
• uncork
• liberate
• unloosen
• emancipate
• free
• enfranchise
• air
• unbind
• manumit
• unchain
• unshackle
• uncage
• unfetter
• spring
• take out
• discharge
• unmoor
• vent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• contain
• hold
• control
• check
• regulate
• inhibit
• restrain
• govern
• constrain
• curb
• rein (in)
• tame
• smother
• bind
• confine
• bridle
• shackle
• handcuff
• hamper
• trammel
• manacle
• enchain
• fetter
• halter

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of unlock

Eating cranberries year-round unlocks their considerable health benefits. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 2 Nov. 2026

There were four arenas to choose from, with an additional two to unlock when players got far enough in Prime 2’s single-player mode. — Daryl Baxter, Space.com, 1 Nov. 2026

This is a potent mobile with a stunningly bright display and comfy, durable design, unlocked to work with any carrier. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026

Maybe that will be the skeleton key to unlocking what has been unlockable. — Jon Krawczynski, New York Times, 30 Oct. 2026