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a door, gate, lid, drawer, or the like in position when closed, consisting of a bolt or system of bolts propelled and withdrawn by a mechanism operated by a key, dial, etc.
was locking
-
past progressiveof lock.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
In the same plaza, Jessica Christopher, co-owner of the Altadena Cookie Co., was locking up for the day when she spotted the dining club members gathered at Lucy’s.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 28, 2025
"My back was spasming the last couple holes and it was locking up," he explained, adding he would receive treatment to be ready for the second round.
From BBC ● Feb. 15, 2024
It fell off my keychain when I was locking up my bike and I didn’t notice until I got home.
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 19, 2023
In the early 1980s, Mr. Russell noticed that one of the fingers on his right hand was locking whenever he played.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 6, 2023
Ms. Margy was locking the door to her office.
From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter
