# unlocked

/ənˈɫɑkt/ (US) · /ʌnlˈɒkt/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. not fastened

adjective · CEFR B1

not closed or fastened with a lock.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. mobile phones

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- She unlocked the front door and stepped inside.
- After completing the final mission, the player unlocked a powerful new character for the next round.
- The researchers believe that studying these ancient texts will provide the key that finally unlocks the mysteries of the lost civilization's social hierarchy.

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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.