lock

English

/lɒk/, /lɑk/

noun
Definitions
  • Something used for fastening, which can only be opened with a key or combination.
  • (computing) A mutex or other token restricting access to a resource.
  • A segment of a canal or other waterway enclosed by gates, used for raising and lowering boats between levels.
  • (gun mechanisms) The firing mechanism.
  • Complete control over a situation.
  • Something sure to be a success.
  • (rugby) A player in the scrum behind the front row, usually the tallest members of the team.
  • A fastening together or interlacing; a closing of one thing upon another; a state of being fixed or immovable.
  • A place from which egress is prevented, as by a lock.
  • A device for keeping a wheel from turning.
  • A grapple in wrestling.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English lok inherited from Old English loc (enclosure, lock, fastening) inherited from Proto-Germanic *luką (lock, opening, hole) inherited from Middle English locken inherited from Old English lūcan (lock, pull up, pluck out, close, enclose) inherited from Proto-Germanic *lūkaną (close, shut, cover, lock) root from Proto-Indo-European *lewg- (bend, twist, turn, fold, break).

Origin

Proto-Indo-European

*lewg-

Gloss

bend, twist, turn, fold, break

Concept
Semantic Field

Basic actions and technology

Ontological Category

Action/Process

Emoji

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms