lock on
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To begin tracking a target via an automated system.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
When the triangle came into view, the robot would then 'lock on' and move directly towards it, adjusting its course as it went.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To cause a missile to track (a target).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To engage in a lock-on protest.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “lock on” mean?
To begin tracking a target via an automated system.
Is “lock on” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.