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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Milwaukee Fire Department arrived on the scene and cut the padlock off the unit, at which point six children — ages 9, 7, 5, 3, 2 and 2 months — were found inside, per the complaint, as reported by CBS 58, WISN 12 and the Journal Sentinel. Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 21 Sep. 2025 Storm Cellar Two more mirrors covered in chains and padlocks will be waiting for visitors in the storm cellar. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 Sep. 2025 Adama unfastened a padlock and loosened the chain securing the doors. Ken Harbaugh, The Atlantic, 15 Sep. 2025 To access confidential mode, click on the little padlock with clock icon at the bottom of the compose message window. Barry Collins, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for padlock

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Padlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/padlock. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

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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