Lockdown Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lockdown

[ˈlɒkdaʊn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

during pandemic

A state of isolation or restricted access instituted as a security measure.

Synonyms

confinement, quarantine, shutdown.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lockdown	This term is used when there are strict restrictions on movement and activities, usually for safety reasons. It can refer to measures taken during a pandemic, a security situation, or other emergencies. The government announced a lockdown to curb the spread of the virus During the lockdown, only essential services were allowed to operate
quarantine	Used specifically in health contexts, quarantine involves keeping people who might have a contagious disease away from others to prevent its spread. It is usually time-limited and based on medical necessity. After traveling abroad, she had to stay in quarantine for two weeks The animals were kept in quarantine to ensure they weren't carrying any diseases
confinement	This word is often used to describe being kept in a certain place, limiting movement. It can refer to imprisonment, staying inside due to illness, or other forms of restriction. It carries a more general and sometimes negative connotation. Due to his illness, he spent weeks in confinement The prisoner was held in solitary confinement for breaking the rules
shutdown	This term refers to the halting of operations, especially in businesses, institutions, or machinery. It can be used in various contexts such as economic, technical, or organizational. The factory faced a temporary shutdown due to maintenance issues The company announced a shutdown of several unprofitable branches

Examples of usage

The country went into lockdown to prevent the spread of the virus.
We are currently in lockdown due to the increase in cases.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general context

A state of being confined to a place, usually due to a dangerous situation.

Synonyms

confinement, isolation, seclusion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lockdown	Typically used to describe a situation where movements or activities are restricted, often by authorities, to prevent escape or ensure safety, commonly used during a pandemic. The government announced a nationwide lockdown to control the spread of the virus. Schools remained closed during the lockdown period.
confinement	Usually refers to the state of being trapped in a particular space or area, can be related to imprisoning someone or keeping someone in a restricted place. The prisoner spent his time of confinement in a small cell. Due to the severe weather, the family was in confinement in their own home.
seclusion	Refers to the act of keeping away from other people or staying in a private place, often voluntarily, for peace and quiet. The writer retired to a cabin in the woods for some seclusion to finish his book. They chose a house in seclusion far away from the city.
isolation	Used when someone or something is kept apart from others, either for health reasons or to avoid contact. It can also refer to social or emotional loneliness. After testing positive for the virus, she was placed in isolation. He felt a deep sense of isolation living alone in a foreign country.

Examples of usage

The school was put on lockdown after a security threat.
The prison went into lockdown following a riot.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'lockdown' became popular in the early 2000s, but its use increased significantly due to health emergencies.
In the 18th century, the term 'lockdown' was used in prisons to refer to restricting inmates' movements for safety reasons.

Public Health

Lockdowns are often implemented during pandemics to reduce the spread of contagious diseases.
The World Health Organization has recommended lockdowns as a public health measure in extreme situations, emphasizing the importance of collective safety.

Psychological Impact

Extended lockdowns can lead to a variety of mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, due to social isolation.
Research shows that during lockdowns, many people reported increased creativity and new hobbies, finding positives amidst the challenges.

Pop Culture

Movies and TV shows have portrayed lockdown scenarios, often dramatizing their effects on characters and society.
In 2020, various artists and musicians held online concerts during lockdowns, reimagining how audiences connect with art.

Technology

The rise of remote work and virtual meetings surged during lockdowns, changing how businesses operate permanently.
During lockdown, many educational institutions adopted online learning platforms, highlighting the shift in traditional teaching methods.

Origin of 'lockdown'

The term 'lockdown' originated in the context of prison settings, where inmates are confined to their cells to prevent unrest or violence. It gained widespread usage during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when governments around the world implemented lockdown measures to curb the spread of the virus. The concept of lockdown has since become a common strategy in emergency situations to protect public safety.

See also: interlock, lock, lockbox, locker, locket, locks, lockup.