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

The insurers unlock substantial amounts of money that otherwise would be required to backstop policyholders.

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“While Bergdorf Goodman is core to our strategy, this process is intended to unlock value for our stakeholders and de-lever our business.”

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The work unlocked a new field of research and potential therapies.

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The “AI valuation will start to get unlocked” for Tesla as it expands its self-driving and robotics businesses.

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She said scrapping stamp duty - a tax on the sale of homes in England and Northern Ireland - will "unlock a fairer and more aspirational society" and help people of all ages.

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Related Words

• decipher 
• undo 
• unravel