How to Pronounce "under lock and key"
expression
ˈəndɝ/ /ˈɫɑk/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈki
UN-der LOCK and KEE
ˈʌndɐ/ /lˈɒk/ /ˈænd/ /kˈiː
UN-duh LOK and KEE
Definition
Kept in a very safe or secure place, usually locked so others cannot get it. Often used for valuable or important items or to describe someone who is locked away.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈəndɝ/ /ˈɫɑk/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈki
British English
ˈʌndɐ/ /lˈɒk/ /ˈænd/ /kˈiː
Simplified Pronunciation
US
UN-der LOCK and KEE
UK
UN-duh LOK and KEE
Listen in Context
The crown jewels are kept under lock and key.
Important documents are stored under lock and key.
The prisoner was kept under lock and key at night.
My dad keeps his private letters under lock and key so no one can read them.