LOCKING AWAY Meaning and
Definition
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Locking away is a verb phrase that refers to the act of securing or confining something or someone by means of a lock or similar fastening mechanism, typically to prevent access or to ensure safety. It implies the detainment or seclusion of the subject for a specified period or until a specific condition is met. This term is commonly associated with physical objects, places, or even emotions.
In a physical context, locking away pertains to safeguarding valuable items or possessions by sealing them behind locked doors, cabinets, safes, or other methods of securing. This action is often taken to prevent theft, damage, or unauthorized use. It represents a precautionary measure to maintain the integrity and security of the locked items.
Furthermore, locking away can also allude to the isolation or confinement of individuals, such as prisoners or patients, for various reasons, including punishment, protection, or rehabilitation. This form of detention involves restraining someone's freedom of movement and restricting access to the outer world.
Figuratively, the term locking away can also encompass the psychological act of suppressing or burying emotions, memories, or thoughts. This suggests an individual's intentional effort to hide or bury intense feelings or distressing experiences deep within themselves, often as a coping mechanism or means of self-protection.
Overall, locking away encapsulates the act of securing, confining, or suppressing, whether pertaining to physical objects, individuals, or emotions, ultimately ensuring limited or controlled access to the subject in question.
Common Misspellings for LOCKING AWAY
- locking awai
- locking awaq
- locking awax
- lockinngaway
- lowckingaway
- lochingaway
- l ocking away
- lo cking away
- loc king away
- lock ing away
- locki ng away
- lockin g away
- locking a way
- locking aw ay
- locking awa y
Etymology of LOCKING AWAY
The term "locking away" is a combination of two words: "lock" and "away".
- "Lock" comes from the Old English word "loc", which is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "luk-". The word has various related meanings, but in this context, it refers to securing, fastening, or closing something by means of a lock.
- "Away" is derived from the Middle English word "awaye", which is a combination of "a-" (on, in, to) and "waye" (way). It conveys the idea of moving something or someone to a distance or removing them from a particular place.
Thus, when "lock" and "away" are combined, "locking away" refers to the act of securely fastening or closing something or someone and moving or removing them to a distance or separate location.
