combination lock

noun

1. a lock opened by rotating one or more specially marked dials a given number of times through a particular set of positions in a prescribed order and direction.

combination lock

noun

1. a type of lock that can only be opened when a set of dials releasing the tumblers of the lock are turned to show a specific sequence of numbers

Word History and Origins

Origin of combination lock¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

My favorite puzzle turned out to involve a combination lock affixed to a basket, in which uncovering the solution required us to listen to a monologue that alluded to famous cats in history and culture.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Twist said arrests were made after officers found 12 heavy duty straps with combination locks in sealed plastic bags.

From BBC

The panel rolled away and revealed a tall steel door with a combination lock right above a thick metal handle.

From Literature

Then he twisted the combination lock and heaved open the steel door.

From Literature

I rushed to my locker, elbowing my way through, and began opening the combination lock with one hand and unbuttoning my shirt with the other.

From Literature