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
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.
FedEx is spinning off its freight business on June 1, aiming to unlock value; the unit expects $8.7 billion in 2026 sales.
From Barron's • May 27, 2026
“This team, in due course, will execute on Starship, and that will unlock tremendous value.”
From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026
“That’s why I think there’s potential for him to unlock a constituency that wasn’t going to vote for a Rick Caruso,” he said, referring to the developer who lost to Bass in 2022.
From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026
Getting a diagnosis can unlock different treatment options, but Annika says that just "being understood" is a "validating experience in itself".
From BBC • May 16, 2026
While he went behind the counter to unlock the cash register, I walked over to the rack where the tablets and pencils were.
From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns
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.
