Lock
/lɒk/
Definitions
4 meaningsA device used to secure a door, gate, or other object, typically consisting of a bolt and a mechanism operated by a key or combination.
/lɒk/
A device for fastening a door, gate, etc.
He installed a new lock on the front door.
💡 Simply: A lock is like a special guard for your door or a box. It uses a key (or a secret code!) to make sure only certain people can get in or open it. It helps keep your stuff safe!
👶 For kids: A lock is like a magic door keeper. It needs a key to open and close!
More Examples
The treasure chest had a complicated lock.
The company uses fingerprint locks for added security.
How It's Used
"She checked the locks on all the doors and windows before going to bed."
"The bicycle lock was cut, and the bike was stolen."
A device that controls the movement of a mechanism or a passage, such as in a canal or a hydraulic system.
/lɒk/
A mechanism that controls the movement of something.
The boat was raised through the lock of the canal.
💡 Simply: Think of a lock as something that controls the flow or movement of something. For example, a canal uses locks to help boats go up and down to different water levels. In simple terms, a lock is a control device!
👶 For kids: A lock is like a gate that helps things move up or down, like in a boat canal!
More Examples
The hydraulic lock prevented the equipment from moving.
Engineers worked on the design of the new lock.
How It's Used
"The hydraulic lock prevented the machine from operating."
"The boat passed through a series of locks to navigate the canal."
To fasten or secure something with a lock, or to prevent access to something by means of a lock.
/lɒk/
To fasten or secure something with a lock.
He locked the door behind him.
💡 Simply: When you lock something, you're using a lock to keep it safe, like locking your front door so no one can come in! It’s like giving it a special guardian.
👶 For kids: To lock something means to close it with a key!
More Examples
She locked her valuables in the safe.
Always remember to lock your car when you park it.
How It's Used
"Remember to lock the door when you leave."
"The security guard locked the gates at night."
To become fixed or stuck in a particular position or state, or to become firmly established or linked.
/lɒk/
To become fixed or stuck.
The computer screen locked, and I had to restart it.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, when something 'locks,' it's like it freezes or can’t move anymore. Like when your computer screen locks up and won't let you click anything, or when your eyes lock on someone else's!
👶 For kids: Sometimes things get stuck, like a screen on a game can freeze!
More Examples
Their eyes locked across the crowded room.
The wheels locked on the car.
How It's Used
"The computer screen locked, and I couldn't do anything."
"His gaze locked on hers across the room."
Synonyms
Bolt
Catch
Latch
Control
Dam
Close
Fix
Freeze
Idioms & expressions
lock and key
Completely secure or under control.
"The valuables are kept under lock and key."
to lock horns (with someone)
To argue or compete fiercely with someone.
"The two candidates are expected to lock horns in the debate."
to have something locked up
To have something stored securely; or to have a skill, or talent mastered.
"They have all the important documents locked up in a safe."
From Old English *loc*, related to Proto-Germanic *luką* ('to close, shut').
The word 'lock' has been used since Old English times, originally referring to a device used to fasten something.