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a door, gate, lid, drawer, or the like in position when closed, consisting of a bolt or system of bolts propelled and withdrawn by a mechanism operated by a key, dial, etc.
locking
-
present participleof lock.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Both polls show a difference between the candidates that falls within the margin of error, locking them in a statistical tie.
From Barron's ● Oct. 24, 2026
The movie teaser, dropped at the same time as the Telluride debut, was instantly viral, spawning memes of Holmes and Fielder locking eyes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 23, 2026
It also announced a new medium-term wage target aimed at closing the gap with other advanced economies and locking in the gains made so far.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 22, 2026
There is a communication breakdown when one partner makes a unilateral financial decision without consulting the other, along with a locking of horns over the mortgage.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 21, 2026
The driver had just slammed the lid on a trunkful of luggage and Charles and Camilla were locking the door behind them.
From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt
