Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Locket Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💍
Add to dictionary

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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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.

Translations

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

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.

Origin of 'locket'

The word 'locket' originated from the Old French word 'loquet', meaning a latch or a small lock. It was first used in the English language in the late 16th century to refer to a small case with a latch for holding a keepsake or a memento. Lockets have been popular throughout history as sentimental pieces of jewelry, often worn to keep loved ones close to the heart.

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

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.