letter-lock
Definition
- Noun:
- A lock with letters: a "letter-lock" is a type of lock that uses letters (typically on rotating rings or dials) instead of numbers to secure something. The correct sequence of letters must be aligned to open the lock.
Usage Examples
- (A lock that uses letters as a security code.)
- (A lock with lettered dials.)
Advanced Usage
"to set a letter-lock": to choose a specific sequence of letters as the combination.
- She set the letter-lock on her gym locker to "G-Y-M". (She programmed the lock to open with those letters.)
"to pick a letter-lock": to open a letter-lock without knowing the combination, often by trial and error.
- The detective tried to pick the letter-lock by testing common words. (He attempted to open it by guessing letter combinations.)
Variants and Related Words
- Letter (n): a character representing a sound in an alphabet.
- The word "cat" has three letters. (Individual alphabetic symbols.)
- Lock (n): a device for fastening something, typically operated by a key or combination.
- She locked the door with a padlock. (A fastening mechanism.)
- Combination lock (n): a lock that uses numbers or letters in a specific order to open.
- A combination lock is similar to a letter-lock but often uses digits. (A lock with a sequence code.)
Synonyms
- Alphabet lock: a lock that uses letters of the alphabet.
- Word lock: a lock that opens by spelling a specific word.
Related Idioms