lock up

To put someone in prison or another place they cannot leave.

• The police locked him up.
• She was locked up for five years.
• They should not lock up innocent people.

How to use it: lock someone up for something (They locked him up for robbery.)

Similar words: imprison, jail

Opposites: release, free

Common phrases: lock someone up, lock up criminals

To put something in a locked place to keep it safe or prevent access.

• Lock up your valuables.
• She locked the money up in a safe.
• Are the cleaning chemicals locked up?

How to use it: lock something up in something (Lock the medicine up in a cabinet.)

Similar words: secure, lock away

Common phrases: lock something up, lock up valuables

To make a building secure by closing and locking its doors and windows.

• I will lock up tonight.
• She locked up the shop at six.
• Have you locked up before going to bed?

How to use it: lock up somewhere (Please lock up the office when you leave.)

Similar words: secure

Common phrases: lock up shop, lock something up

To suddenly stop moving or responding because something gets stuck or fails.

• The brakes locked up.
• My computer keeps locking up.
• The wheels locked up when he braked hard.

Similar words: freeze, jam, seize

Common phrases: brakes lock up, computer lock up

To fasten a door, window, or similar opening with a lock.

• Please lock up that door.
• He locked the gate up behind him.
• Did you lock up the back window?

How to use it: lock something up (Remember to lock the back door up.)

Similar words: lock

Opposites: unlock

Common phrases: lock up doors, lock something up

To make a victory, deal, or position certain, or gain firm control over it.

• They locked up the title.
• The company has locked up a major contract.
• One more win would lock up the championship.

How to use it: lock up something (She locked up the nomination with those votes.)

Similar words: secure, clinch

Common phrases: lock up victory, lock up a deal