lock on

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive

In simple words

To find a target and fix onto it completely, like a missile that has found its aim.

Literal meaning: To lock a tracking or guidance system onto a target so it cannot escape — 'on' implies attachment and sustained contact.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

common

(Military/technology) For a guidance or tracking system to detect and fix onto a target automatically.

"The missile locked on to the heat signature of the aircraft."

Grammar: inseparable

2 B2 idiomatic neutral

common

To fix one's gaze or attention intensely and singularly on something or someone.

"The shark locked on to the swimmer the moment it sensed movement."

Grammar: inseparable

3 B1 neutral

uncommon

To attach or connect securely to something using a locking mechanism.

"Make sure the battery locks on properly before you turn the device on."

Grammar: inseparable

Usage notes

Strongly associated with military and aviation vocabulary (missile locking onto a target). Widely extended figuratively to sports, predatory animals, and intense human focus. Also used in computing for auto-focus camera systems.

Commonly used with

target signal prey frequency opponent radar

Forms

Base

lock on

I/you/we/they

3rd person

locks on

he/she/it

Past simple

locked on

yesterday

Past participle

locked on

have + pp

-ing form

locking on

continuous

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Synonyms

fix on acquire target zero in on home in on track

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