unlock
/ʌnˈlɑk/ verb B2- To undo or open a lock or something locked by, for example, turning a key, or selecting a combination. · I unlocked the door and walked in.
- To obtain access to something; to meet the requirements of a security or protection system. · I unlocked the dictionary article so I could edit it.· This computer game is shareware, but you can pay for a code to unlock the full version.
- To configure (a mobile phone) so that it is not bound to any particular carrier.
- To disclose or reveal previously unknown knowledge or potential. · The discovery of a clue unlocked the mystery.
- To be or become unfastened or unrestrained.
- To make available.
- To undermine something that has control over a situation; to find a way to counter or oppose.
He/she/it unlocks · Past unlocked · Past participle unlocked · -ing form unlocking
Verb forms
- Base form
- unlock
- He/she/it
- unlocks
- Past
- unlocked
- Past participle
- unlocked
- -ing form
- unlocking
From the library
Morrel obeyed; the count arose, and unlocking a closet with a key suspended from his gold chain, took from it a little silver casket, beautifully carved and chased, the corners of which represented four bending figures, similar to the Caryatides, the forms of women, symbols of the angels aspiring to heaven.
This officer unlocked their spectacles to put them back in his great box, and then he politely opened the gate for our friends.
The Cowardly Lion was much pleased to hear that the Wicked Witch had been melted by a bucket of water, and Dorothy at once unlocked the gate of his prison and set him free.
They are all locked on, for Oz so ordered it when the City was first built, and I have the only key that will unlock them.”
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