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

According to Witkoff, the key to unlocking a deal was Israel's decision to attack Hamas negotiators in Qatar.

Read more on BBC

At 15:19, she tried the door to the toilet, using a master key to unlock it.

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“After receiving interest from multiple parties, we have initiated a comprehensive review of strategic alternatives to identify the best path forward to unlock the full value of our assets.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Chief executive David Zaslav said the board would review its options in light of the bids, as it looks to identify the "best path ... to unlock the full value of our assets".

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In a statement, Zaslav said the company has “initiated a comprehensive review of strategic alternatives to identify the best path forward to unlock the full value of our assets.”

Read more on MarketWatch

Related Words

• decipher 
• undo 
• unravel