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.
Meta said in December that the deal -- the financial details of which were not disclosed -- would "bring a leading agent to billions of people and unlock opportunities for businesses across our products".
From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026
The process most often involves doing what you do to unlock your device - such as using built-in biometric sensors to scan your fingerprint or face, or using a pin code.
From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026
By focusing on the biology of the cell rather than redesigning the delivery system, researchers may have found a practical way to unlock the full potential of mRNA therapies and gene editing technologies.
From Science Daily • Apr. 20, 2026
Shree Reddy, PenFed Credit Union executive vice president, said the company deployed an Agentforce agent to help its employees reset passwords and unlock accounts, reducing total IT tickets created by 40%.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026
The door is, of course, locked, and multiple attempts to unlock it with the coat hanger are less effective here than elsewhere.
From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
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.
