combination lock

noun

1. a lock opened by rotating one or more specially marked dials a given number of times through a particular set of positions in a prescribed order and direction.

combination lock

noun

1. a type of lock that can only be opened when a set of dials releasing the tumblers of the lock are turned to show a specific sequence of numbers

Word History and Origins

Origin of combination lock¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

My favorite puzzle turned out to involve a combination lock affixed to a basket, in which uncovering the solution required us to listen to a monologue that alluded to famous cats in history and culture.

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Mr Twist said arrests were made after officers found 12 heavy duty straps with combination locks in sealed plastic bags.

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The panel rolled away and revealed a tall steel door with a combination lock right above a thick metal handle.

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Then he twisted the combination lock and heaved open the steel door.

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I rushed to my locker, elbowing my way through, and began opening the combination lock with one hand and unbuttoning my shirt with the other.

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