Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of lock mechanism: A cylinder lock is a lock in which a cylindrical plug rotates to move the bolt. The mechanism uses a series of pins; inserting the correct key lifts and aligns these pins, allowing the cylinder to rotate and operate the lock.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Most modern residential doors are secured with a cylinder lock.
  • The locksmith recommended replacing the old warded lock with a more secure cylinder lock.
  • To rekey the cylinder lock, you need to adjust the pin tumblers inside.

Advanced Usage

• "Deadbolt cylinder lock": A specific type of cylinder lock that operates a deadbolt, a solid metal bolt that extends into the door frame.

  • For added security, install a deadbolt cylinder lock on your exterior doors.

• "Euro cylinder lock": A common standard for cylinder locks in Europe, often used in uPVC and composite doors.

  • The euro cylinder lock can be easily replaced if the keys are lost.

Variants and Related Words

• Pin tumbler lock: A more technical term often used synonymously with cylinder lock, describing the internal pin mechanism.

  • The pin tumbler lock is the most common design for cylinder locks.

• Cylinder: Refers specifically to the rotating plug part of the lock.

  • The key turns the cylinder to retract the latch.

Synonyms

• Pin tumbler lock: A lock operated by aligning pin tumblers.
• Barrel lock: An informal term sometimes used, though less precise.

Related Phrases

• "To pick a cylinder lock": The act of manipulating the pins inside a cylinder lock to open it without the original key.

  • Learning to pick a cylinder lock requires understanding its pin mechanism.

• "Cylinder lock housing": The fixed outer casing that holds the rotating cylinder.

  • The cylinder lock housing was damaged and needed replacement.

Noun

1. a lock in which a cylinder rotates to move a bolt; tumblers are pins; inserting the key lifts and aligns the pins to free the cylinder to rotate