[lok-doun] /ˈlɒkˌdaʊn/

the confining of prisoners to their cells, as following a riot or other disturbance.
a security measure taken during an emergency to prevent people from leaving or entering a building:
The school remains under lockdown due to police activity in the area.
(US) a security measure in which those inside a building such as a prison, school, or hospital are required to remain confined in it for a time: many schools remained under lockdown yesterday

the state of being grounded and denied privileges
Usage Note


also lock-down, from 1940s in various mechanical senses, from lock (v.) + down (adv.). Prison sense is by 1975, American English.



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