lock
UK: lɒk | US: lɑːk
n. a device used to fasten or secure something
vt. to fasten or secure with a lock
vi. to become fixed or immovable
The word "lock" traces back to Old English loc, meaning "barrier, fastening," derived from Proto-Germanic lukana. It shares roots with Dutch lok and German Loch ("hole"), reflecting the original concept of a mechanism that "closes" or "secures." The term has retained its core meaning over centuries, evolving from physical fastenings (e.g., door locks) to metaphorical uses (e.g., "locked in thought").
She turned the key in the lock to open the door.
Always lock your bicycle to prevent theft.
The gears locked into place with a loud click.
His jaw locked in frustration during the argument.
The software encrypts and locks sensitive files automatically.