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to lock out
[phrase form: lock]
01
to prevent someone from entering a place by securing the entrance with a lock
Examples
The security guard locked out the group of protesters who were trying to enter the government building.
The family locked their dog out after it chewed up their furniture.
02
to unintentionally prevent oneself from entering a place, particularly by leaving the keys inside
Examples
The homeowner locked themselves out of their house after leaving the keys on the kitchen counter.
The individual locked themselves out of their car after tossing the keys inside while carrying groceries.
03
to keep data secure by preventing unauthorized access
Examples
The operating system locked out the process from accessing the memory-mapped file.
The database administrator locked out the user from accessing the customer database.
04
to prevent one's employees from working until they accept new policies or conditions
Examples
The company locked its workers out after they voted down the proposed wage cuts.
The union called for a strike after the company locked out its workers.
05
to exclude someone or something from participation or access
Examples
People with criminal records are often locked out of the job market due to discrimination and hiring biases.
The organization locked out its members from attending the annual meeting.
