unlock

American  

[uhn-lok] / ʌnˈlɒk /

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.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become unlocked.

unlock British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• unlockable adjective

Etymology

Origin of unlock

1350–1400; Middle English unloken; un- ², lock ¹

Example Sentences

He said last week that the humanoid robots could be sold to consumers toward the end of next year, potentially unlocking a largely untapped market.

From MarketWatch

But he added: "Implementation will be key to unlocking the agreement's full potential."

From BBC

Mom unlocks the door to our room and pushes it open.

From Literature

A caller shared that what finally unlocked regular entertaining for her was a simple garden flag.

From Salon

"That £1 might feel small but when artists at the top level step up, it unlocks serious, long-term support for the base that holds the whole live music ecosystem together," it said in a statement.

From BBC

Related Words

• decipher
• undo
• unravel