Locket: meaning, definitions and examples

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locket

[ˈlɒkɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

jewelry

A locket is a small ornamental case, typically made of gold or silver, worn around a person's neck as a pendant and usually containing a photograph or lock of hair.

Synonyms

locket necklace, necklace, pendant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
locket	A locket is typically a small, ornamental case, usually made of metal, worn as a necklace and often containing a photograph or a small keepsake. It is often given as a sentimental gift to hold something meaningful. She wore a gold locket with a picture of her grandparents inside. The locket he gave her for their anniversary had a tiny note hidden inside.
pendant	A pendant is a piece of jewelry that hangs from a chain worn around the neck. It can take various forms such as gems, crosses, or other decorative pieces. It is often used to describe the piece that hangs from the necklace chain, not the chain itself. She wore a necklace with a heart-shaped pendant. His pendant was an emerald set in gold.
locket necklace	A locket necklace specifically refers to a necklace that has a locket attached to it. It emphasizes the combination of the locket and the necklace chain together. She treasured her grandmother's locket necklace. For her birthday, she received a silver locket necklace.
necklace	A necklace is a piece of jewelry worn around the neck. It can be made from various materials such as gold, silver, beads, or gemstones. It is used more generally and does not necessarily contain a locket or other special feature. She wore a pearl necklace to the party. He gifted her a diamond necklace on their anniversary.

Examples of usage

She always wears a locket with a picture of her family inside.
He gave her a locket with their initials engraved on it.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sentimental

A locket is a piece of jewelry that is worn as a keepsake, often containing a memento of a loved one or a sentimental value.

Synonyms

keepsake, memento, souvenir.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
locket	A small ornamental case, typically worn on a necklace, that holds items of personal significance like photographs or small keepsakes. She wore a beautiful locket with a picture of her grandparents inside. He gave her a heart-shaped locket as a token of his love.
keepsake	An item kept in memory of the person who gave it or originally owned it. It signifies personal or emotional attachment. She treasured the ring as a keepsake from her grandmother. The letter served as an important keepsake from his childhood.
memento	An object kept as a reminder of a person, place, or event. It may not have significant personal value but serves as a reminder. He kept the old ticket stub as a memento of their first concert together. They collected seashells as mementos from their trip to the beach.
souvenir	An item bought or taken as a reminder of a place, often during travel. It's usually not highly personal and often has commercial value. She bought a magnet as a souvenir from her trip to Paris. They gave him a souvenir keychain from their vacation in Hawaii.

Examples of usage

She cherished the locket that belonged to her grandmother.
The locket held a tiny note with a special message inside.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'locket' comes from the Middle French word 'loquet,' meaning 'a little lock.'
Lockets became popular during the Renaissance as a way to keep portrait images of loved ones close.
In the Victorian era, they often held hair from a loved one, serving as sentimental mementos.

Cultural Significance

Lockets have been traditionally given as gifts to symbolize love and affection, especially between couples and family members.
In some cultures, giving a locket can signify a promise or bond that withstands the test of time.
They are often worn during significant life events, like engagements or weddings, as a keepsake.

Artistry

Lockets can be made from various materials, including gold, silver, and enamel, allowing for personal expression in design.
Artisans have crafted ornate lockets that feature intricate designs, making them collectible pieces of art.
Some modern lockets include engraving options, where meaningful messages can be etched, adding a personal touch.

Psychology

Keeping a locket with a picture of a loved one can provide comfort and connection, even when apart.
Psychological studies suggest that items with sentimental value can enhance feelings of security and happiness.
Wearing a locket can serve as a tangible reminder of relationships, positively influencing mood and emotional stability.

Pop Culture

Lockets appear frequently in films and literature, often symbolizing secrets or hidden truths.
Famous characters in movies have used lockets to signify love, loss, or mystery, enhancing the storyline.
In the 90s, a popular children's show featured a magical locket that granted the protagonist various powers, sparking children's imaginations.

Translations

Translations of the word "locket" in other languages:

🇵🇹 medalhão

🇮🇳 लॉकेट

🇩🇪 Medaillon

🇮🇩 medali liontin

🇺🇦 медальйон

🇵🇱 medalion

🇯🇵 ロケットペンダント

🇫🇷 médaillon

🇪🇸 medallón

🇹🇷 madalyon

🇰🇷 메달리온

🇸🇦 ميدالية

🇨🇿 medailon

🇸🇰 medailón

🇨🇳 盒式项链

🇸🇮 medaljon

🇮🇸 medalíonar

🇰🇿 медальон

🇬🇪 მედალიონი

🇦🇿 medalyon

🇲🇽 medallón

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,840, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
25837 mismatched
25838 enrol
25839 directorship
25840 locket
25841 optometry
25842 remarry
25843 misreading
...