unlock
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to undo the lock of (a door, chest, etc.), especially with a key.
-
to open or release by or as if by undoing a lock.
-
to open (anything firmly closed or joined).
to unlock the jaws.
-
to lay open; disclose.
to unlock the secrets of one's heart.
verb (used without object)
verb
-
(tr) to unfasten (a lock, door, etc)
-
(tr) to open, release, or let loose
-
(tr) to disclose or provide the key to
unlock a puzzle
-
(intr) to become unlocked
Other Word Forms
- unlockable adjective
Etymology
Origin of unlock
Explanation
When you unlock something, you turn a key or use a code in order to open it. You have to unlock your locker before you can get the books you need for English class. You might unlock your front door by turning a bolt or unlock a hotel room door by sliding a card into a reader. Either way, something was secured with a lock and now you've opened it. This verb is also used for smart phones: "Once you unlock the screen, you can see that photo I sent." Unlock is formed by adding the prefix un-, "reverse," to lock, "fasten or secure."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The game, designed by Japanese artist Kotake Create, drops you into a white-tiled subway corridor that you’ll encounter again and again until the keys to unlock the title escape are deduced.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026
The pedal versions cost 50p to unlock and 5p per minute after that, while e-bikes are £1 to unlock and 10p per minute.
From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026
Prices need to be low to unlock certain cost-conscious markets.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026
According to the WTO, the C-4+ countries would need to attract $12 billion in investments over 10 years to unlock the sector's full potential.
From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026
“It means if we can get an ID belonging to someone who works in the server room, it should unlock that door as well as the main door that connects to the catacombs,” she said.
From "City Spies" by James Ponti
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
