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

Derived Forms

• unˈlockable, adjective

Other Words From

• un·locka·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlock¹

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

Example Sentences

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From Slate

Is there untapped potential for City to unlock?

From BBC

Body-centric data can include information such as the fingerprints used to unlock phones, face scans from facial recognition technology, and data from fitness and fertility trackers, mental health apps and digital medical records.

From Los Angeles Times

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From Slate

Join Slate Plus to unlock full, ad-free access to What Next and all your other favorite Slate podcasts.

From Slate

Related Words

• decipher
• undo
• unravel