Langimage
English

lockdown

|lock-down|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈlɑkˌdaʊn/

🇬🇧

/ˈlɒkˌdaʊn/

restricted access

Etymology
Etymology Information

'lockdown' originates from the English words 'lock' and 'down', where 'lock' meant 'to secure' and 'down' indicated 'a state or condition'.

Historical Evolution

'lockdown' evolved from the combination of 'lock' and 'down' in the late 20th century, becoming a common term in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to secure a place', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a state of restricted access'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a state of isolation or restricted access, usually instituted as a security measure.

The city was placed under lockdown due to the pandemic.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42