unlock

verb

un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk How to pronounce unlock (audio)
unlocked; unlocking; unlocks

transitive verb

1
: to unfasten the lock of
2
: open, undo
3
: to free from restraints or restrictions
the shock unlocked a flood of tears
4
: to furnish a key to : disclose

intransitive verb

: to become unfastened or freed from restraints

Examples of unlock in a Sentence

Could you unlock the door for me? geneticists unlocking the secrets of DNA The material's potential was unlocked only through extensive testing. How can I unlock my computer if I've forgotten the password? This class will unlock your creativity.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Takeaway: Both extremes—leaning solely on brilliance or compassion—fail to unlock a team’s full potential. Ajit Dodani, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster for the region, unlocking federal aid for affected residents. Melissa Noel, Essence, 9 Jan. 2025 This activation code registers your software and is used to unlock your five free federal e-files. Molly Higgins, WIRED, 9 Jan. 2025 Quantum machines could unlock breakthroughs rivaling those now projected to come from AI. Charina Chou, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for unlock 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unlock was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near unlock

Cite this Entry

“Unlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unlock. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

unlock

verb
un·​lock ˌən-ˈläk How to pronounce unlock (audio)
ˈən-
1
: to open or unfasten through release of a lock
unlock the door
the chest won't unlock
2
: to set free : release
unlock a flood of emotions
3
: to make known
scientists unlocking the secrets of nature

More from Merriam-Webster on unlock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!