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window lock

window lock

1 2.3
A small device attached to a window that keeps it closed and stops people opening it
  • noun
translation icon : cerradura de ventana
  • Any chance you could fix the front window lock for me before you go?
  • check the window lock

Examples

  • The repairman installed a new window lock to prevent any unwanted intrusions.

  • She goes to the living room and double-checks the window locks there.

    Fiction book (2000)
  • Do all the door and window locks work right?

    Blog text (15)
  • A small section of glass has been removed, just large enough to permit the entry of a hand to the window lock.

    Fiction book (1992)
  • Special window locks can be cumbersome without light, so make sure that you can open them both quickly and quietly.

    Blog text (32)
  • Was this how Salt Lake City's finest approached well-dressed homeowners who chose to fiddle with their window locks on Sunday mornings?

    Fiction book (2000)
  • Before going on vacation, he made sure to secure the window lock to keep the house safe.

  • She checked the window lock to ensure it was functioning properly before leaving the room.

Synonyms

latch
vswindow lock
49 2.6

A small metal part that holds a door or gate closed

is attached to a window frame to secure it closed rather than for doors
sash lock
vswindow lock
  • Specialized
6.2

A small lock on a window with two moving panels that keeps them closed

is a general device for securing an opening closed not limited to double-hung types
sash fastener
vswindow lock
  • Specialized
7.3

A small piece that locks the two sliding parts of a window

is a general device for securing an opening closed not limited to double-hung parts

How Protective

shutter
36 3.5
storm window
  • US
4 3.6
window lock
1 2.3
blind
56 2.3
window screen
  • US
1 2.3

Surface Forms

window lock singular
window locks plural

Morphology

window + lock

The meaning is directly and transparently derived from combining 'window' (an opening fitted with glass) and 'lock' (a mechanical fastening): it denotes a lock for a window. This straightforward noun-compound follows common English and cross-linguistic patterns, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents will readily infer the intended device and function.

Etymology

The compound noun window lock comes from a simple picture: a small lock fixed to a window to keep it closed and stop anyone from opening it. That's why it means 'a device attached to a window to secure it in the closed position'.