unlocked
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ʌnˈlɒkt/
KK: /ʌnˈlɑkt/
adjective
Definition
Describes something, like a door, that is not secured and can be opened without a key.
Example
The door was unlocked, allowing anyone to enter the room.
Conversation
I left the front door unlocked by mistake last night.
Oh no! Did anything happen?
No, thankfully everything was fine, but it made me nervous.
That's a relief! Just make sure to double-check next time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
open
free
accessible
Antonyms
locked
secure
closed
verb
Definition
To open something that was locked, allowing access or use.
Example
She unlocked the door to let her friends in.
Tense Forms
Past: unlocked
Past Participle: unlocked
Conversation
Did you manage to get into the room?
Yeah, I finally unlocked the door after trying several keys.
That's great! I was worried you might be stuck outside.
Root Explanation
Unlocked → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "lock" (from Old English "locc", meaning to fasten or secure). The word "unlocked" means not fastened or secured, indicating that something is open or accessible.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'locked' — this helps you remember that 'unlocked' means something is open and not secured.
Visually Confused Words
unblocked
unrocked
unmocked
unlicked
unhocked
undocked
uncocked
locked