adjective
Uncommon
unlocked
uhn-LOKT
Unlocked (adjective) means not secured with a lock. Example: “He found the back door unlocked.”
adjective
1
Not secured with a lock.
"an unlocked computer file"
"He found the back door unlocked."
"The shed was unlocked, so anyone could have walked in."
"Please leave the gate unlocked until the guests arrive."
2
Of a mobile phone, not tied to a single network carrier.
"She bought an unlocked phone so she could switch providers freely."
"Because my phone is unlocked, I can use a local SIM abroad."
"An unlocked handset costs more but works with any network."
How to use unlocked
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOpen, not fastened shut — or, for phones, free to use with any carrier.
Common pairings
unlocked door
unlocked phone
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Synonyms
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Rhymes for unlocked
See all rhymes for unlocked →Frequently asked questions
What does “unlocked” mean?
The word “unlocked” means not secured with a lock. In plain terms, open, not fastened shut — or, for phones, free to use with any carrier.
How do you pronounce “unlocked”?
“Unlocked” is pronounced uhn-LOKT (/ʌnˈlɑkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “unlocked” in a sentence?
Here is “unlocked” used in a sentence: “He found the back door unlocked.”
What part of speech is “unlocked”?
“Unlocked” is an adjective.
Is “unlocked” a common word?
“Unlocked” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “unlocked” have?
“Unlocked” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: not secured with a lock.
What is the difference between an unlocked phone and a locked phone?
An unlocked phone is not tied to a single network carrier and can be used with SIM cards from different providers. A locked phone is restricted to one carrier's network, often because it was purchased under a contract or subsidy, and requires unlocking before it can be used elsewhere.
What is the difference between unlocked and open in the context of a door?
Unlocked means a door or lock has not been secured, but it may still be closed. Open means the door itself is not shut. A door can be unlocked yet closed, or locked yet slightly open if it was left ajar before being secured.
Why do people buy unlocked phones?
People often buy unlocked phones because they are not tied to a single network carrier, allowing the owner to switch providers or use local SIM cards while traveling. This flexibility is a common reason unlocked phones are preferred over carrier-locked models.
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