Lock up Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɫɑk/ /ˈəp

LAHK-up

UK

lˈɒk/ /ˈʌp

LOK-up

Definition

To close something with a key to keep it secure, or to put someone in a prison or similar place.

Usage & Nuances

Common for securing doors, windows, or valuables. Can mean 'put someone in jail' in both literal and figurative ways ('lock up the suspects'). Often used: 'lock up the house', 'lock up valuables'. Informal: 'lock yourself up' (stay inside).

• Spanish: cerrar con llave - encerrar
• Portuguese (BR): trancar - prender (alguém)
• Portuguese (PT): trancar - prender (alguém)
• Chinese (Simplified): 锁上 - 关进监狱
• Chinese (Traditional): 鎖上 - 關進監獄
• Hindi: ताला लगाना - कैद करना
• Arabic: إغلاق بالمفتاح - حبس
• Bengali: তালা লাগানো - কারাগারে বন্ধ করা
• Russian: запереть - посадить (в тюрьму)
• Japanese: 施錠する - 監禁する
• Vietnamese: khóa lại - giam giữ
• Korean: 잠그다 - 가두다
• Turkish: kilitlemek - hapsetmek
• Urdu: تالا لگانا - قید کرنا
• Indonesian: mengunci - memenjarakan

Example Sentences

Please lock up the house when you leave.

basic

Did you lock up your bike outside?

basic

The police will lock up the thief tonight.

basic

Make sure to lock up your valuables before you go on vacation.

natural

He was locked up for ten years after the trial.

natural

Sometimes I just want to lock up and be alone for a while.

natural