unlock

Meaning

Verb

1. To undo or open a lock or something locked by, for example, turning a key, or selecting a combination.
2. To obtain access to something; to meet the requirements of a security or protection system.
3. To configure (a mobile phone) so that it is not bound to any particular carrier.
4. To disclose or reveal previously unknown knowledge or potential.
5. To be or become unfastened or unrestrained.
6. To make available.
7. To undermine something that has control over a situation; to find a way to counter or oppose.

Noun

1. The act of unlocking something.
2. An initially hidden feature that is made available to reward the player for some achievement.

Synonyms

open

unfasten

undo

unbolt

unlatch

loosen

untie

loose

unbar

release

unlace

unhook

unclasp

open up

uncover

unleash

unloosen

unbotton

decipher

clear

unzip

switch on

disunite

turn on

unfold

admit

disengage

unhinge

unbind

pass off

pop

disentangle

rid

solution

spill

take off

temper

unclip

unblock

disencumber

unbound

unbrace

unbuckle

unbutton

unchain

unclamp

unclog

throw open

discharge

deliver

unfix

unfurl

unhand

unhitch

break out

unstuff

unlink

unloose

unbox

unroll

unscrew

unseal

allow

unveil

utter

bite out

loosen up

douse

emancipate

emit

enable

exhaust

exfoliate

extricate

free

🆓

give off

let

let go

liberate

display

make

dislocate

open the door

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ʌnˈlɒk/

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English: unloken

Inherited from Old English: onlūcan

Cognate with Dutch: ontluiken

In summary

From Middle English unloken, unlouken, onlouken, from Old English onlūcan (“to unlock”), equivalent to un- + lock. Cognate with Dutch ontluiken (“to unlock”).