lock

noun
UK: /lɒk/
US: /lɑːk/

  1. A device that fastens something and can be opened with a key or combination.

    1. I need a lock for my bike, it is important. [ ] [ ]
    2. The security guard changed the lock after the office break-in last night. [ ] [ ]

  2. A section of a canal or river closed off with gates, used to raise or lower boats between different water levels.

    1. The boat went through the lock quickly. [ ] [ ]
    2. The lock keeper carefully managed the water levels for the approaching ships. [ ] [ ]

  3. A strand or cluster of hair.

    1. She has a lock of hair of her baby. [ ] [ ]
    2. A stray lock of hair fell across her forehead as she read the letter. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

fasten clasp catch bolt secure
lock verb

  1. To fasten something with a lock.

    1. Lock the door when you leave. [ ] [ ]
    2. Please lock all valuables in the hotel safe before going out. [ ] [ ]

  2. To become fastened or secured by a lock.

    1. The door won't lock properly. [ ] [ ]
    2. Ensure the gate will lock automatically after each use for security. [ ] [ ]

  3. To hold something tightly.

    1. She lock eyes with him after meet. [ ] [ ]
    2. The company has tried to lock in its customer base with exclusive offers. [ ] [ ]
lock adjective

  1. Used to describe a situation where something is fixed or unchangeable.

    1. It is a lock situation for me. [ ] [ ]
    2. They are in a lock position and can't change anything for now. [ ] [ ]
lock phrasal-verb

  1. To confine or keep shut

    1. They lock him up [ ] [ ]
    2. The lock company lock away the profits in offshore accounts. [ ] [ ]

  2. Become rigidly fixed or joined

    1. My tires lock up. [ ] [ ]
    2. The wheels lock up suddenly on icy surfaces, causing dangerous skids. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "lock" in English means: A device that fastens something and can be opened with a key or combination., A section of a canal or river closed off with gates, used to raise or lower boats between different water levels., A strand or cluster of hair..

The phonetic transcription of "lock" is /lɒk/ in British English and /lɑːk/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "lock": fasten, clasp, catch, bolt, secure.

Example usage of "lock": "I need a lock for my bike, it is important.". More examples on the page.