locked
7 synonyms and 0 antonyms 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.
How to use locked
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
The "very drunk" sense is informal slang, mainly heard in Ireland and the UK.
Etymology
* (drunk): Perhaps 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.