English Reference
adjective

unlocked

adj.
US /ənˈɫɑkt/ UK /ʌnlˈɒkt/ un·locked

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    not closed or fastened with a lock.

    not secured by a lock; in a state where access is open.

    Simple

    I realized I had left the back door unlocked all night.

    In context

    The investigators found the safe unlocked, suggesting that the thief either had the combination or the staff had been negligent.

    openunfastenedunsecured
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    a phone that is not restricted to one specific mobile network.

    referring to a mobile device that is not electronically restricted to a specific carrier or network provider.

    Simple

    If you buy an unlocked phone, you can use any SIM card when you travel.

    In context

    Purchasing an unlocked handset allows the consumer to switch between service providers without having to pay expensive roaming fees or termination penalties.

    SIM free
This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated