lock
noun
a device for securing a door, gate, lid, drawer, or the like in position when closed, consisting of a bolt or system of bolts propelled and withdrawn by a mechanism operated by a key, dial, etc.
is locking
-
present progressiveof lock (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
The antidote is locking in allies like Japan and the Netherlands so the target can’t simply shop elsewhere.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 23, 2026
Meanwhile, China is locking up the silver used to manufacture the solar panels which generate that power.
From MarketWatch ● Dec. 30, 2025
Instead of opening up the site to further interoperability, Musk is locking it down.
From Slate ● Feb. 3, 2023
Porzingis said Sunday the key to thriving without Beal is locking in on defense.
From Washington Post ● Dec. 5, 2022
Chucha is locking up the garage and hosing down the driveway, which seems a strange thing to be doing in the middle of the night.
From "Before We Were Free" by Julia Alvarez
