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
1
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."
"Can you unlock the car, please? My hands are full of shopping."
2
To make something available or reveal hidden potential.
"The scholarship unlocked opportunities she never thought possible."
"Learning to read unlocked a whole new world for the shy little boy."
"Good teachers help to unlock the hidden talents of their students."
3
In games, to make a feature or item available as a reward for progress.
"Beating the boss unlocks a new character."
"You unlock the secret level by collecting every star in the game."
"Players can unlock new outfits as they complete each daily challenge."
How to use unlock
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- unlocks
- Third person singular
- unlocks
- Past tense
- unlocked
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."
Related words
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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