lock-in
|lock-in|
🇺🇸
/ˈlɑk.ɪn/
🇬🇧
/ˈlɒk.ɪn/
prevent exit or change
Etymology
'lock-in' originates from English, formed by combining the verb 'lock' and the adverb/preposition 'in'.
'lock' comes from Old English 'locc' meaning 'lock, fastening, enclosure', and 'in' comes from Old English 'in' meaning 'in, into'. Over time these two elements combined in Modern English to form the compound 'lock-in' used as both a noun and a phrasal verb.
Initially the elements simply described the physical action 'to lock in' (to close/secure something inside). Over time the compound expanded to include figurative senses such as contractual or technical situations that prevent switching (customer lock-in) and social events where participants remain in a place.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a contractual or technical situation that makes it difficult, expensive, or impossible for a customer or user to change providers, products, or platforms (often called 'customer lock-in').
The new phone ecosystem creates a strong lock-in for users who buy apps and media.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
an event in which participants are kept in (or remain in) a place for a set period, for example a social or fundraising event held overnight in a school, library, or club (also called a 'lock-in' event).
The library organized a lock-in to raise money and get students reading through the night.
Synonyms
Verb 1
phrasal verb (used transitively): to secure or fix something so that it is certain or cannot change (e.g., a rate, a date, or a contract). This entry is the verbal counterpart of the noun 'lock-in'.
The insurer tried to lock in a low rate for the next five years.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
phrasal verb (used transitively): to prevent someone from leaving or to confine someone or something (literal or figurative).
A sudden storm could lock in travelers at the remote lodge.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/19 15:08