What is lock? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of lock

locknoun

khóa

/lɒk/

Definition & pronunciation of <b>lock</b>

Where does the word lock come from?

The word "lock" has its roots in Old English and dates back to the 9th century. The original meaning of "lock" referred to a device used for fastening or securing something, such as a piece of clothing or a container. The word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "lukiz," which is also the source of the Modern German word "Lücke," meaning "gap" or "opening." In Old English, the word "lock" appeared as "loc," with various meanings including "bolt," "bar," or "clasp." Over time, the spelling and meaning of the word evolved, and by the Middle English period (circa 1100-1500), "lock" referred primarily to a device used for securing or fastening objects or doors. Today, the word "lock" is used in a wide range of contexts, including security, transportation, and mechanisms.

Vocabulary summary lock

typenoun

meaninglock of hair; lock of cotton; lock of wool

examplethis door won't: this door can't be locked

exampleto pick a lock

meaning(plural) hair, hair

examplehoary locks

typenoun

meaninglock

examplethis door won't: this door can't be locked

exampleto pick a lock

meaningpin (to hold the wheel, record...)

examplehoary locks

meaningbreech

Example of vocabulary lockfasten

meaning

to fasten something with a lock; to be fastened with a lock

  • Did you lock the door?
  • David locked the car and slipped the key into his pocket.
  • The gates are locked at 6 o'clock.
  • a locked cabinet
  • This suitcase doesn't lock.

Example of vocabulary lockkeep safe

meaning

to put something in a safe place and lock it

  • She locked her passport and money in the safe.

Example of vocabulary lockbecome fixed

meaning

to become or make something become fixed in one position and unable to move

  • The brakes locked and the car skidded.
  • He locked his helmet into position with a click.

Example of vocabulary lockin difficult situation

meaning

to be involved in a difficult situation, an argument, etc.

  • The two sides are locked into a bitter dispute.
  • She felt locked in a loveless marriage.

Example of vocabulary lockbe held tightly

meaning

to be held very tightly by somebody

  • They were locked in a passionate embrace.

Example of vocabulary lockcomputing

meaning

to use a code or password to prevent data on a phone or computer from being changed or looked at by somebody without permission

  • These files are locked to protect confidentiality.
  • My phone is locked and I've forgotten the password.
  • Make sure you lock your screen if you leave your desk.

Synonyms and related words for lock

Idioms of vocabulary lock

lock horns (with somebody) (over something)
to get involved in an argument with somebody
  • The company has locked horns with the unions over proposed pay cuts.

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