- lock
- I UK [lɒk] / US [lɑk]
verb
Word forms "lock":
present tense I/you/we/they lock he/she/it locks present participle locking past tense locked past participle locked
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1)a) [transitive] to fasten something such as a door or a container, usually with a key, so that other people cannot open itJohn went out and locked the door behind him.
lock something in something:Have you locked the car?
She locked the documents in the safe.
b) [intransitive] to become fastened with a lockThe door slammed and locked.
This drawer won't lock.
2)a) [intransitive] if something locks in a particular position, it is firmly fixed or held in that positionThe brakes locked and the car spun off the road.
b) [transitive] to lock or fix something firmly in a particular positionHe locked his arms around her waist.
3) [transitive] computing to prevent information on a computer from being changed or looked at by someone who does not have permissionAll entries are locked so no unauthorized modifications can be made.
4) [intransitive/transitive] literary if two people's eyes lock, they look directly into each other's eyes•lock horns (with)
— to become involved in something such as a fight or competition with someoneTwo of Rugby League's top teams will lock horns with each other tomorrow.
locked in (a) battle/debate/dispute/negotiations etc
— involved in a fight, discussion, or argument that lasts a long timePhrasal verbs:The two sides were locked in fierce debate over the proposed merger deal.
- lock in- lock out- lock up
II UK [lɒk] / US [lɑk] noun
Word forms "lock":
singular lock plural locks
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1)a) [countable] a part of a door, drawer, suitcase etc used for fastening it so that no one can open it. You usually open and close locks with a key, but if you pick a lock, you use something else to open it, often illegallyHe slowly turned the key in the lock.
All the windows were fitted with locks.
b) a piece of equipment used for preventing someone from using a vehicle, machine etcUse a steering-wheel lock for your car.
See:2) [countable] a place on a river or canal with a set of gates which open and close to allow boats in. The water can then be moved to a lower or higher level.3) [countable] a way of holding someone so that they cannot move when you are fighting4) [countable] computing something that prevents information on a computer from being changed or looked at by someone who does not have permission5) [countable] in rugby, a player in the second row of the scrum6) [countable/uncountable] British a steering wheel on full lock is turned as far as possibleEven on full lock I couldn't get round the corner.
7) locks[plural] literary hairher flowing golden locks
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English dictionary. 2014.