Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of lock bolt: A deadbolt is a solid metal bar in a lock that moves horizontally into a strike plate in the door frame to secure a door. It is distinct from a spring latch and typically requires a key or thumbturn to be engaged or withdrawn.

Usage

• Noun:
  • Always lock the deadbolt when you leave the house for added security.
  • The door has a standard handle lock and a separate, more robust deadbolt above it.

Advanced Usage

• "To throw/deploy the deadbolt": To manually or mechanically slide the bolt into its locked position.

  • Before going to bed, she made sure to throw the deadbolt on the front door.

• "Single-cylinder vs. double-cylinder deadbolt": A single-cylinder deadbolt uses a key on the outside and a thumbturn on the inside, while a double-cylinder deadbolt requires a key for both sides.

  • For safety, they installed a double-cylinder deadbolt on the door leading to the garage.

Variants and Related Words

• Deadlock (n): Often used synonymously with "deadbolt," though it can also refer more generally to a type of lock or an impasse in a situation.

  • The door was secured with a heavy-duty deadlock.

• Bolt (n): The general term for the sliding metal bar in a lock. A deadbolt is a specific, non-spring-loaded type of bolt.

Synonyms

• Lock bolt: A more general term for the bolt component of a lock.
• Security bolt: Emphasizes the protective function.

Related Phrases

• "Deadbolt locked": The state of being securely locked with the deadbolt engaged.

  • He checked that the door was deadbolt locked before leaving.

• "Install a deadbolt": The action of fitting a deadbolt lock to a door.

  • The first step in home security is to install a deadbolt on all exterior doors.

Noun

1. the part of a lock that is engaged or withdrawn with a key