Word
unlocked
Phoneticsun·locked, stress on the second syllable
US/ənˈɫɑkt/
UK/ʌnlˈɒkt/
Definitions
01not fastened
B1 · Intermediate
adj. not closed or fastened with a lock.
adj. not secured by a lock; in a state where access is open.
“I realized I had left the back door unlocked all night.”
“The investigators found the safe unlocked, suggesting that the thief either had the combination or the staff had been negligent.”
02mobile phones
B2 · Upper Intermediate Computing Technical
adj. a phone that is not restricted to one specific mobile network.
adj. referring to a mobile device that is not electronically restricted to a specific carrier or network provider.
“If you buy an unlocked phone, you can use any SIM card when you travel.”
“Purchasing an unlocked handset allows the consumer to switch between service providers without having to pay expensive roaming fees or termination penalties.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Verizon this week imposed a new roadblock for people who want to pay off device installment plans early in order to get their phones unlocked.” “The FCC said the action "closes a loophole that sophisticated criminal networks and everyday lawbreakers alike have exploited to engage in illicit activity." It added that Verizon’s unlocked handsets are often stolen and resold for premium prices on the dark web, particularly in countries like Russia, China, and Cuba.” “Verizon’s current policy is for phones to be “remotely unlocked automatically 60 days after paid activation and 60 days of paid active service.” “Using the default settings, the phone still unlocked if the user pretended to be asleep.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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