in loco
Americanadverb
Etymology
Origin of in loco
First recorded in 1700–10
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Coaches often serve in loco parentis, guiding a developing prospect not only through training and tournaments but also the awkward riddles of growing up.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 23, 2025
He was also asked about his understanding of the term "in loco parentis", namely having responsibilities for children in the absence of their parents or guardians.
From BBC ● Jan. 24, 2024
So, parents, too, would be pupils of the state government acting in loco parentis.
From Washington Post ● Oct. 21, 2022
IHEs act in loco parentis and thus have a duty to care for the safety and security of students on campus.
From Scientific American ● Aug. 5, 2021
“She can get married if she has the permission of her legal guardian, acting in loco parentis,” Klaus said.
From "The Bad Beginning" by Lemony Snicket
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
