under lock and key: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘under lock and key’ mean?
The idiom "under lock and key" means to be securely locked away or guarded, making it difficult for someone or something to access or escape.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "under the covers" means to be in bed and completely hidden by the bedcovers.
The idiom "under one's hat" means to keep something a secret or to refrain from sharing information with others.
The idiom "under glass" means to be kept or displayed in a protective or controlled environment, often for preservation or exhibition purposes.
The idiom "tight ship" means to maintain strict control and order in a particular situation or organization.
The idiom "tight ship" is commonly used to describe an individual or organization that runs a well-organized and efficient operation, maintaining strict discipline and order. This concept can be applied to a variety of contexts, including businesses, sports teams, households, and military units.
The idiom "tight lips" means to keep a secret or to not reveal information. It suggests that someone is keeping their mouth closed and withholding any details or thoughts.
Tight lips is an idiom commonly used in English. It describes someone unwilling to reveal or share information, especially secrets. The phrase implies secrecy and discretion, as if the person is keeping their lips tightly sealed to prevent any information from escaping.
The idiom "tight-lipped" means to refuse to speak or to keep quiet about something. It implies a sense of secrecy or unwillingness to reveal information.
The idiom "skeleton in the closet" refers to a hidden or embarrassing secret that someone wants to keep concealed from others.
One of the idioms commonly used in American English is "skeleton in the closet." This idiom refers to a shameful or embarrassing secret from someone's past that they would rather keep hidden. While its origin is not entirely clear, there are a few potential explanations for the idiom's meaning and usage.
The idiom "put someone in a box" means to restrict or limit someone's options or abilities, making them feel trapped or confined.
The idiom "on the down-low" means to keep something secretive or hidden, usually referring to activities, information, or relationships that people want to keep confidential or not openly disclose. It suggests a sense of secrecy or discretion.
The idiom "one's lips are sealed" means to keep one's mouth shut and not reveal a secret or confidential information.
The idiom "one's lips are sealed" has its roots in ancient Roman culture. During certain ceremonies, participants would have their mouths literally sealed shut with wax to signify their loyalty and commitment to keeping a secret. This practice has influenced the idiomatic expression we use today.
Unlocking the Enigma
The idiom "behind closed doors" is closely related to the concept of something being "under lock and key." When something is said to be happening "behind closed doors," it means that it is taking place in private, away from public view or scrutiny. This idiom implies a sense of secrecy or confidentiality, similar to the idea of something being locked away and protected. It suggests that there may be hidden or undisclosed information or actions taking place, and that access to such information or actions is restricted to a select group of people.
In a symbolic sense, being "behind closed doors" can also refer to situations or discussions that are kept confidential, such as negotiations, decision-making processes, or sensitive conversations. Just like something that is under lock and key, matters that happen behind closed doors are not easily accessible or known by everyone. This idiom emphasizes the idea of limited access and the need for discretion.
Another related idiom is "Fort Knox." When something is described as being as secure as "Fort Knox," it means that it is extremely well-protected and difficult to access or breach. Fort Knox is the United States Bullion Depository, a highly secure facility that stores a large portion of the country's gold reserves. The comparison to Fort Knox suggests that whatever is being referred to in the context of the idiom is similarly impervious to unauthorized entry or tampering. This reinforces the concept of something being under lock and key, under tight security measures that ensure its protection and safety.
"in a box" is another idiom that is closely related to the notion of something being "under lock and key." When something is said to be "in a box," it means that it is enclosed or sealed within a container of some sort. This implies a level of confinement, isolation, and inaccessibility. Just like something that is under lock and key, an item that is in a box is secured and protected, often from the outside world or from potential damage. This idiom invokes the idea of boundaries and restricted access, emphasizing the need for careful handling and safeguarding.
Finally, the idiom "closed book" is also relevant to the concept of something being "under lock and key." When something is described as a "closed book," it means that it is difficult or impossible to understand or access. This idiom conveys a sense of mystery, secrecy, or inaccessibility. Just like something that is under lock and key, a closed book is closed off and kept from view or comprehension. It suggests that information or knowledge is being withheld or concealed, and that access to it is limited. This idiom underscores the idea of something being hidden or restricted, adding to the overall theme of safeguarding and protection that is associated with being "under lock and key."
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "under lock and key" can be used in a sentence:
- After the theft, she kept her valuable jewelry under lock and key.
- The secret documents were secured under lock and key in a high-security vault.
- The medication needs to be kept under lock and key to prevent unauthorized access.
More "Security" idioms
