Lock: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
lock
[lษk ]
Definitions
security
A mechanical device for keeping a door, lid, etc., closed, consisting of a bolt and a way of fitting securely.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lock |
Typically used for securing doors, safes, or other items that need to be kept secure. Often involves a key or combination.
|
| bolt |
Commonly used for metal or wooden doors and gates. It involves sliding a metal bar into a latch or groove to secure it.
|
| fastener |
A general term that can apply to various mechanisms used to close or secure things, including zippers, buttons, and Velcro. Not necessarily secure in the way a lock or bolt would be.
|
| clasp |
Often used for small, portable items like jewelry, purses, or bags. Not typically used for doors or large objects.
|
Examples of usage
- She turned the key and heard the lock click open.
- He put the key in the lock and turned it to the right.
security
Fasten or secure (something) with a lock.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lock |
Use when securing a door, container, or similar item with a mechanical fastening device, often involving a key or combination.
|
| secure |
A broad term that means to make something safe from danger or unauthorized access. Can be used in various physical and metaphorical contexts.
|
| bolt |
Typically used when referring to a metal bar that slides into a socket to secure something, such as a door or a gate. It often involves a sliding mechanism.
|
| fasten |
A general term used for attaching, securing, or closing something. It can refer to various methods such as buttons, zippers, or straps.
|
Examples of usage
- She locked the door behind her before leaving the house.
- He locked the suitcase before boarding the plane.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old English 'loccian,' which means to fasten or close securely.
- In many languages, the word for 'lock' is related to words meaning to 'secure' or 'fasten', revealing a common need for security across cultures.
History
- Locks have been in use for thousands of years, with the earliest known lock dating back to Egypt around 4000 BC.
- The Romans developed sophisticated locking mechanisms, using wooden pins that could only be removed with the correct key.
Pop Culture
- Many thrillers and mystery movies feature locks as symbols of secrets waiting to be revealed, often involving a key or challenging puzzle.
- Popular TV shows and books sometimes use locks as metaphors for emotional barriers that characters must overcome.
Science
- Modern electronic locks use advanced technology, such as biometrics and RFID, ensuring heightened security and convenience.
- Researchers have studied various types of locks to improve safety standards, leading to innovations in how we secure our homes and valuables.
Psychology
- The concept of locking away emotions is common in psychology, illustrating the struggle between vulnerability and safety.
- People often describe feelings of being 'locked up' when dealing with anxiety or fear, reflecting how emotions can feel trapped.
Translations
Translations of the word "lock" in other languages:
๐ต๐น fechar
๐ฎ๐ณ เคคเคพเคฒเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช schlieรen
๐ฎ๐ฉ mengunci
๐บ๐ฆ ะทะฐะผะพะบ
๐ต๐ฑ zamek
๐ฏ๐ต ใญใใฏ
๐ซ๐ท verrouiller
๐ช๐ธ cerrar
๐น๐ท kilitlemek
๐ฐ๐ท ์ ๊ทธ๋ค
๐ธ๐ฆ ููู
๐จ๐ฟ uzamknout
๐ธ๐ฐ uzamknรบลฅ
๐จ๐ณ ้ๅฎ
๐ธ๐ฎ zakleniti
๐ฎ๐ธ loka
๐ฐ๐ฟ าาฑะปัะฟัะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แฉแแแแขแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ baฤlama
๐ฒ๐ฝ cerrar