padlock

noun

pad·​lock ˈpad-ˌläk 

: 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

Months of dust lined the doorjamb, and the dead bolt was dull, but the padlock hanging from it was new. — Madhuri Vijay, New Yorker, 16 Aug. 2026

The hotel promises to archive guests' digital padlocks. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 June 2026

The signature padlock logo charm on the front and a chain insert on the strap add bold touches to the elegant silhouette of the bag. — Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 May 2026

Most internet security — think of the tiny padlock symbol in your internet browser — is currently based on encryption that relies on a quirk of math. — Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 17 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for padlock

• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock
• boardwalk
• catwalk
• cornstalk
• crosswalk
• deadlock
• feedstock
• fetlock
• flintlock
• goshawk

Kids Definition

padlock

noun

pad·​lock ˈpad-ˌläk 

: a removable lock with a curved piece that snaps into a catch

padlock verb