verb B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

unlock

uhn-LOK

Unlock (verb) means to open something that is locked, such as a door or device. Example: “She used her fingerprint to unlock the phone.”

verb

To open something that is locked, such as a door or device.

"She used her fingerprint to unlock the phone."

"He unlocked the front door and let the dog out."

To make something available or reveal hidden potential.

"The scholarship unlocked opportunities she never thought possible."

In games, to make a feature or item available as a reward for progress.

"Beating the boss unlocks a new character."

How to use unlock

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo open something locked, or figuratively to reveal or make available something previously hidden.

Common pairings

unlock the door unlock potential unlock a feature

Word forms

unlocked past tense, unlocks plural, unlocks singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She used her fingerprint to _____ the phone.

Etymology

From Old English onlucan, "to unlock," from "un-" + "lock."

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

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unfasten unlatch unbolt unbar release open up

Related words

going free issue hold release album join catch

Frequently asked questions

What does “unlock” mean?

The word “unlock” means to open something that is locked, such as a door or device. In plain terms, to open something locked, or figuratively to reveal or make available something previously hidden.

How do you pronounce “unlock”?

“Unlock” is pronounced uhn-LOK (/ʌnˈlɑk/ in IPA).

How do you use “unlock” in a sentence?

Here is “unlock” used in a sentence: “She used her fingerprint to unlock the phone.”

What part of speech is “unlock”?

“Unlock” is a verb.

Where does the word “unlock” come from?

The word “unlock” comes from Old English. From Old English onlucan, "to unlock," from "un-" + "lock.".

Is “unlock” a common word?

“Unlock” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “unlock” have?

“Unlock” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to open something that is locked, such as a door or device.

What is the difference between unlock and open?

To unlock is to release the lock on something so it can be opened, while to open is to actually move it apart or gain access. You often unlock a door first and then open it.

What is the difference between unlock and unblock?

Unlock means to release something that is locked, or to make hidden potential available. Unblock means to remove an obstruction, as with a blocked pipe or a blocked contact online. The two are not interchangeable.

Can unlock be used figuratively?

Yes. Beyond opening physical locks, unlock often means to make something available or reveal hidden potential, as in unlock new opportunities or unlock your creativity.

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