To access something means to be able to reach it, use it, or get to it. When you have access to a library, you can enter and borrow books. When you access a website, you open it on your computer or phone. Access can mean physical entry, like having a key card that gives you access to a building, or it can mean permission to use something, like having access to your school's computer lab during lunch.

The word also describes the actual act of getting to something. You might access your email by typing in a password, or access information by searching online. Scientists access data from their research. A hiker might struggle to access a remote mountain trail.

Sometimes access means opportunity. Students in wealthy neighborhoods might have greater access to advanced classes or music programs than students in poorer areas. When we talk about access to healthcare or access to education, we mean whether people can actually get these things when they need them, not just whether they exist somewhere.

The opposite of access is being blocked, locked out, or unable to reach something you need. Having access means the path is open to you.