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locked

adj.
US //ˈɫɑkt// UK //lˈɒkt// locked
  1. 1 secured with a key (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    fastened with a lock so that it cannot be opened without a key or code.

    secured by a mechanical or electronic locking mechanism to prevent unauthorised entry or opening.

    Example

    She tried the handle, but the front door was locked tight.

    Example

    The investigators found the safe locked, suggesting that the thief had either been interrupted or possessed the necessary combination.
  2. 2 fixed or unchangeable (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    fixed in one position or unable to be changed.

    firmly fixed in a specific position or state; often used for prices, gears, or physical joints.

    Example

    The two companies agreed on a locked price for the next three years.

    Example

    With the wheels locked in a sideways skid, the driver had little hope of regaining control before the vehicle reached the soft verge.
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  1. 3 computing/digital access (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    protected so that only one person or program can use it at a time.

    restricted by a mutex, token, or password to prevent simultaneous access or modification of data.

    Example

    I cannot edit the spreadsheet because the file is currently locked by another user.

    Example

    The database record remains locked until the transaction is either committed or rolled back, ensuring data integrity across the network.
  2. 4 very drunk (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Dialect

    extremely drunk from drinking too much alcohol.

    a state of extreme intoxication.

    Example

    He had way too many pints and ended up completely locked.

    Example

    After the wedding reception, half the guests were absolutely locked and had to be poured into taxis.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is primarily used in Irish English; learners should use 'drunk' or 'intoxicated' in formal or international contexts.
Origin

* (drunk): Perhaps from airlocked.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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