unlock
UK: ʌnˈlɒk | US: ʌnˈlɑːk
vt. to open something that is locked
vt. to release or make accessible (e.g., potential, data)
vt. to solve or reveal (a mystery or secret)
unlock = un<not, reverse action> + lock<fasten>
- un (prefix): From Old English un-, meaning "not" or "reverse action." Used to negate or invert the meaning of the root.
- lock (root): From Old English loc, meaning "fasten" or "secure." Originally referred to physical mechanisms but extended metaphorically to concepts like secrets or restrictions.
Etymology Origin:
The word unlock emerged in Middle English by combining the Germanic prefix un- (indicating reversal) with lock, a term for securing objects. Over time, its meaning expanded from literal physical opening (e.g., doors) to abstract ideas like "freeing potential" or "revealing hidden information," reflecting technological and linguistic evolution.
She used a key to unlock the door.
The update will unlock new features in the app.
Scientists hope to unlock the secrets of aging.
His advice helped me unlock my creativity.
The code is required to unlock the encrypted file.