ENGLISH
REFERENCE

locking

n. · v.
US //ˈɫɑkɪŋ// UK //lˈɒkɪŋ// lock·ing
  1. 1 restricting access to data (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    a way to stop two people from changing the same computer file at the same time.

    the use of a lock or mutex to restrict access to a shared resource or section of code to a single process at a time.

    Example

    The database uses row-level locking to prevent errors when two users try to update the same record.

    Example

    Improperly implemented locking can lead to deadlocks, where two competing threads are each waiting for the other to release a resource.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun in the context of database management or multi-threaded programming.
  2. 2 becoming fixed or stuck (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    when parts of a machine or body get stuck and cannot move.

    the state of becoming fixed, rigid, or immovable due to mechanical failure or physical restriction.

    Example

    He went to the doctor because he was experiencing painful locking in his knee joint.

    Example

    The pilot reported a locking of the landing gear, necessitating an emergency descent and a manual override procedure.
Origin

From lock + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Related words

Last updated July 22, 2026