la serrure
lock
Objet fixé à une porte ou à un meuble qui permet de le fermer à l’aide d’une clé ou d’un système similaire.
Serrure is a French noun that means lock in English.
Meaning
A serrure is a mechanical or electronic device used for securing doors, cabinets, boxes, or other items by preventing unauthorized access. It usually involves a key or a combination to open.
Parts
- Cylindre (cylinder): The part where the key is inserted.
- Pêne (bolt or latch): The metal piece that moves to lock or unlock.
- Corps (body): The main structure of the lock.
Synonyms
- Cadenas: Padlock
- Verrou: Bolt, latch, or locking bar
- Loquet: Latch
Antonyms
- There is no direct antonym, but the idea of opening or unlocking (déverrouiller) contrasts with locking (verrouiller).
Additional information
- Figuratively, serrure can sometimes refer to a "barrier" or something that "locks" a problem or situation.
- The related verb serrer means "to tighten," which is etymologically linked to serrure.
In summary, serrure is an essential object in securing belongings and spaces, commonly found on doors and containers.
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Examples
Catherine met la carte dans la serrure pour ouvrir la porte.noun
Catherine puts the card in the lock to open the door.
La serrure était cassée, alors je l’ai changée ce matin.noun
The lock was broken, so I changed it this morning.
Les serrures de ces portes sont très vieilles.noun
The locks on these doors are very old.
Il a versé un peu d'huile dans la serrure car elle grinçait.noun
He poured a little oil into the lock because it was squeaking.
Le serrurier a enfin remplacé les serrures de toutes les chambres.noun
The locksmith finally replaced the locks in all the rooms.
Il faut mettre un peu d'huile dans cette serrure pour qu'elle tourne facilement.noun
You need to put a little oil in this lock so that it turns easily.
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