padlock

noun

pad·​lock ˈpad-ˌläk How to pronounce padlock (audio)
: a removable lock with a shackle that can be passed through a staple or link and then secured
padlock transitive verb

Examples of padlock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web After the police officers had bagged and weighed the contraband and sent it off in an evidence van, a sheriff’s sergeant sealed the entrances to the store with padlocks. Ashley Southall, New York Times, 13 June 2024 After the sheriff placed a padlock on the trap and threatened to alert the media of the impending release, a biologist was called in to tranquilize the bear, and it was examined and found to be male. Steven Hill, Field & Stream, 13 June 2024 Locks, including padlocks, bicycle locks, chain locks or similar device. Alison Dirr, Journal Sentinel, 11 June 2024 The 75 fresh padlock cases resulted in nearly $6 million in penalties being issued against the operators of the shops in question, according to Adams’ office. Chris Sommerfeldt, New York Daily News, 14 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for padlock 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'padlock.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English padlok, from pad- (of unknown origin) + lok lock

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of padlock was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near padlock

Cite this Entry

“Padlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/padlock. Accessed 30 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

padlock

noun
pad·​lock ˈpad-ˌläk How to pronounce padlock (audio)
: a removable lock with a curved piece that snaps into a catch
padlock verb

More from Merriam-Webster on padlock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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