padlock
/ˈpadlɒk
/noun
A detachable lock hanging by a pivoted hook on the object fastened: a padlock on the garden gate...
- It was locked with a padlock, and padlocks are especially easy to pick.
- Pin-tumbler locking mechanisms make padlocks harder to pick.
- The briefcase is now locked with two padlocks so no one can get the present.
verb [with object]
Secure with a padlock: his father had padlocked the gate...
- One gate is padlocked - but chained so carelessly a man could squeeze through the gap with ease.
- Members of council noted that media reports of the incident had frightened seniors who are now padlocking their doors.
- Andy was padlocked behind a steel door when I arrived.
Synonyms
lock, lock up, fasten, chain, bolt;
secure
Origin
Late 15th century: from pad- (of unknown origin) + the noun lock1.