padlock

[ pad-lok ]

noun

1. a portable or detachable lock with a pivoted or sliding shackle that can be passed through a link, ring, staple, or the like.

verb (used with object)

1. to fasten with or as with a padlock.

padlock

/ ˈpædˌlɒk /

noun

1. a detachable lock having a hinged or sliding shackle, which can be used to secure a door, lid, etc, by passing the shackle through rings or staples

verb

1. tr to fasten with or as if with a padlock

Other Words From

• un·padlocked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of padlock¹

First recorded in 1425–75, padlock is from the late Middle English word padlok. See pod ⁴, lock ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of padlock¹

C15 pad, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

As the years passed, they lost sight of their padlock as the global trend for love locks spread and thousands of other locks appeared on the bridge.

From BBC

It's locked with a huge iron padlock on the main gate.

From BBC

“We never would have guessed that from the padlock on your door or that expression you make whenever someone stands close to you.”

From Literature

Both of the process servers removed a padlock from the gated drive, the statement said.

From Seattle Times

An order then came down from the authorities in Pyongyang, he alleged, ordering officials to padlock the workers into their camp at night to stop them escaping.

From BBC

Related Words

• cement
• clinch
• fix
• settle