1 B2 neutral
(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."
inseparable
lock on
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To fix a tracking system, gaze, or attention precisely and firmly on a target.
In plain English
To find a target and fix onto it completely, like a missile that has found its aim.
What does "lock on" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
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."
inseparable
3 B1 neutral
To attach or connect securely to something using a locking mechanism.
"Make sure the battery locks on properly before you turn the device on."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To lock a tracking or guidance system onto a target so it cannot escape — 'on' implies attachment and sustained contact.
Actually means
To find a target and fix onto it completely, like a missile that has found its aim.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "lock on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
target signal prey frequency opponent radar
How to conjugate "lock on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "lock on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "lock on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "lock on"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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