Lock: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used for securing doors, safes, or other items that need to be kept secure. Often involves a key or combination.

• She used a lock to secure her bicycle to the fence.
• Make sure to lock the door before you leave.

Commonly used for metal or wooden doors and gates. It involves sliding a metal bar into a latch or groove to secure it.

• He slid the bolt across the door to ensure it wouldn't open.
• The heavy bolt made the gate very secure.

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.

• The coat had a row of sturdy fasteners down the front.
• He inspected the fasteners on his backpack to ensure nothing would fall out.

Often used for small, portable items like jewelry, purses, or bags. Not typically used for doors or large objects.

• She fastened the necklace with a delicate clasp.
• The handbag had a magnetic clasp for easy opening and closing.

Use when securing a door, container, or similar item with a mechanical fastening device, often involving a key or combination.

• Please lock the door before you leave
• He locked the gate to the garden

A broad term that means to make something safe from danger or unauthorized access. Can be used in various physical and metaphorical contexts.

• Ensure that confidential documents are secure
• The fence needs to be secured properly

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.

• He bolted the door to keep it secure
• Make sure the window is bolted shut at night

A general term used for attaching, securing, or closing something. It can refer to various methods such as buttons, zippers, or straps.

• Remember to fasten your seatbelt before the car starts moving
• She fastened her coat with a belt