locked
7 synonyms and 1 antonym for locked, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Fastened shut, or fixed firmly in place, typically by a lock.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
fastened
bolted
latched
Antonyms
How to use locked
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
locked door
locked in place
get locked
The "very drunk" sense is informal slang, mainly heard in Ireland and the UK.
Etymology
In the sense “drunk”, it perhaps comes from airlocked.
Full origin of locked →Frequently asked questions
What does “locked” mean?
The word “locked” means fastened shut, or fixed firmly in place, typically by a lock. In plain terms, fastened or fixed in place; informally, extremely drunk.
How do you pronounce “locked”?
“Locked” is pronounced lokt (/lɑkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “locked” in a sentence?
Here is “locked” used in a sentence: “The door was locked, so they couldn't get in.”
What part of speech is “locked”?
“Locked” is an adjective.
Is “locked” a common word?
“Locked” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “locked” have?
“Locked” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: fastened shut, or fixed firmly in place, typically by a lock.
What is the opposite of locked?
The direct opposite of locked is unlocked — able to be opened freely. Depending on context, open, unfastened, or unsecured also work as antonyms. A locked door is held shut by a lock or bolt, while an unlocked one can simply be pushed or pulled open.
What is the difference between locked and closed?
Closed simply means shut — a closed door may still open with a push. Locked goes further: it is fastened by a lock or mechanism so it cannot be opened without a key, code, or release. Something can be closed but unlocked, or, less usually, open but lockable.
What does it mean when a phone or account is locked?
Beyond physical doors, locked describes digital access being restricted. A locked phone requires a passcode or biometric to open, while a locked account has been temporarily frozen — often after suspicious activity or too many failed logins — so no one can sign in until it is verified or reset.
