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Synonyms

unlock

American  
[uhn-lok] / ʌnˈlɒk /

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 British  
/ 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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • unlockable adjective

Etymology

Origin of unlock

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Optical interconnects and advanced package integration are foundational to the next phase of AI infrastructure, as they unlock ultrahigh-bandwidth, energy-efficient connectivity across AI factories,” Nvidia said in a statement announcing the investments.

From Barron's

In my room, I flopped onto my bed and unlocked my new phone.

From Literature

I looked around, hoping for a clue, but a second later I heard footsteps and a door being unlocked behind me.

From Literature

Investors are focused on the company’s AI efforts, believing they will unlock a new era of earnings growth.

From Barron's

But to unlock a flood of new lending, especially for first-time buyers trying to make a suitable down payment, would probably require much more than changes at the margins of capital rules.

From The Wall Street Journal