# unlock

/ənˈɫɑk/ (US) · /ʌnlˈɒk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unlock
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to open a lock

verb · CEFR A2

to open a door, box, or gate using a key or a secret code.

For teachers: to undo a mechanical or electronic lock by means of a key, combination, or biometric data.

- I couldn't unlock the front door because I had the wrong set of keys.
- The janitor had to unlock every classroom in the wing before the students arrived for their morning examinations.

Usage: Transitive verb taking a physical object.

### 2. digital access

verb · CEFR A2

to gain access to a phone, computer, or app by entering a password.

For teachers: to bypass a security screen or encryption on a digital device to make it functional.

- You can unlock this phone just by looking at the camera.
- Modern operating systems allow users to unlock their workstations using encrypted tokens or fingerprint recognition.

Usage: Often used with 'phone', 'screen', or 'account'.

### 3. to reveal potential

verb · CEFR B2

to find a way to use a skill or a secret that was hidden before.

For teachers: to release or make available a latent power, a hidden quality, or restricted information.

- This new course will help you unlock your creative potential.
- The researchers hope that these new documents will finally unlock the mystery of the lost colony.

Usage: Frequently collocates with 'potential', 'secrets', or 'mysteries'.

### 4. remove carrier limits

verb · CEFR B2 · Technical

to change a phone's settings so it can work with any mobile company.

For teachers: to remove a service provider's software restriction on a handset, allowing it to operate on any compatible network.

- I need to unlock my phone before I travel so I can use a local SIM card.
- The technician explained that while the hardware was compatible, the carrier refused to unlock the device until the contract expired.

### 5. gaming reward

noun · CEFR B1 · Informal

a special feature or item in a video game that you earn by playing well.

For teachers: an initially inaccessible feature, character, or item in a video game made available as a reward for achievement.

- If you finish the level in under three minutes, you get a secret unlock.
- The latest patch added several cosmetic unlocks that players can earn by participating in the seasonal tournament.

## Examples

- I need to unlock the front door for our guests.
- You must enter the correct password to unlock your phone and access your apps.
- The new research grant aims to unlock the potential of renewable energy sources by funding innovative engineering projects across the country.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.