Meaning & Definition of word "Unlock"
to
Unlock
/ʌnˈlɒk/
verb:
- 1. To open or set free (a lock or barrier), allowing access.
- Example: She used her key to unlock the door to the garden.
- 2. To make available or accessible, to remove limitations.
- Example: The new software update will unlock features that were previously unavailable.
- 3. To reveal or disclose something that was hidden.
- Example: The detective worked hard to unlock the mysteries of the case.
- 4. To make someone’s potential or talents available or usable.
- Example: The coach helped the athlete unlock her full potential.
Etymology
The word 'unlock' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'lock'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
unlock potential:
To allow someone or something to develop or improve.
unlock the secrets:
To discover or reveal hidden truths.
unlock a mystery:
To solve or understand something that is puzzling.
Related Words
lock:
A device for securing something.
key:
A device that unlocks a lock.
bar:
A physical barrier.
Slang Meanings of unlock
Meaning: To achieve success or understanding.
Example Sentence: After studying hard, I finally unlocked the math problem.
Meaning: To figure something out.
Example Sentence: Once I unlocked the secret to her recipe, I could make it perfectly.