under lock and key

idiom

: in a room, box, etc., that is locked
The jewels are kept under lock and key.
The prisoner is being kept/held under lock and key.

Examples of under lock and key 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.
According to Us Weekly sources, the details were kept under lock and key—even from guests, who would be shuttled to and from their hotel to avoid leaks. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 28 Sep. 2025 The logline is being kept under lock and key, as well, though sources have described the project as a fugitive thriller set during Halloween. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2025 If he were apprehended, the rest of his days would surely be lived under lock and key. Manuel Muñoz, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2025 Her plans for a fan meet or performances stateside are also kept under lock and key. Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for under lock and key

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Under lock and key.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/under%20lock%20and%20key. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!