Locking

/ˈlɒkɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The action or process of locking something.

The locking of the gates was done promptly at nightfall.

A mechanism or device used for securing something.

The locksmith examined the locking mechanism for any faults.

verb

The act of fastening or securing something with a lock.

She is locking the door before going to bed.

To make something secure or unable to be moved or altered.

The software is locking the file to prevent any changes.

To block access to something or make it inaccessible.

He is locking his car to prevent theft.

To fasten a mechanism that prevents movement.

I’ll be locking the windows before the storm arrives.

Middle English, from Old English 'loccian', meaning 'to fasten'.

locking horns

To engage in a dispute or argument.

lock and key

To secure safely, often used metaphorically.

locking in

To finalize something, such as a decision or price.

lock

A device used to secure something.

unlock

To open or release a lock.

key

A device that opens a lock.

fasten

To secure something in place.

To lock someone out of a situation.

He felt like he was being locked out of the conversation.

To secure a deal or arrangement.

We are locking in that partnership for the next year.