unlock

[uhn-lok]

verb (used with object)

1. to undo the lock of (a door, chest, etc.), especially with a key.

2. to open or release by or as if by undoing a lock.

3. to open (anything firmly closed or joined).

   to unlock the jaws.

4. to lay open; disclose.

   to unlock the secrets of one's heart.

verb (used without object)

1. to become unlocked.

unlock

/ ʌnˈlɒk /

verb

1. (tr) to unfasten (a lock, door, etc)

2. (tr) to open, release, or let loose

3. (tr) to disclose or provide the key to

   unlock a puzzle

4. (intr) to become unlocked

Other Word Forms

• unlockable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlock¹

1350–1400; Middle English unloken; un- ², lock ¹

Example Sentences

It forms a key transport and supply hub and its capture could unlock Russian efforts to seize the rest of the region.

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Management expects improving growth over the course of 2026, another potential catalyst that could unlock more confidence from the market—and stock gains.

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“We continue to focus on unlocking the structural advantages of our vertically integrated model that strengthen our business and separate our customer offering.”

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Tesla investors have been focused on the company’s AI opportunities, believing that AI-trained robots and robo-taxis will unlock a new era of earnings growth for the EV maker.

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A successful conversion of the ChatGPT-developer to a more traditional corporate structure is set to unlock billions more in funding.

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Related Words

• decipher 
• undo 
• unravel