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

The incidents highlight the growing risk that scammers or rogue states will harness cutting-edge technologies to scale up attacks, sometimes demanding ransoms to unlock data or systems. — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026

Yu also posted on Weibo that the roof tent also unlocks a side awning with the same single button press. — New Atlas, 4 Aug. 2026

The proposal has drawn questions from opponents about how the plan squares with the historic preservation easement placed on the property, which could unlock a tax deduction for investors as development rights are restricted. — Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 2026

Deloitte estimates that deploying AI across energy systems could save 3,700 TWh a year by 2030, unlock around $240 billion in annual cost reductions and avoid 660 megatons of emissions. — Lital Marom, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026