French word

serrure

Pronunciation

IPA/seʁyʁ/

Meaning

  • feminine nounlock

Example

La serrure est cassée.

The lock is broken.

Illustration for serrure (lock)

More examples

Il a forcé la serrure.

He forced the lock open.

Core concept

A fixed locking mechanism inside a door or piece of furniture, holding it shut until its matching key or code operates it.

Common phrases

  • ouvrir la serrure

    open the lock

  • changer la serrure

    change the lock

  • installer une serrure

    install a lock

Similar words

cadenas: A compact removable lock attached to a chain or metal fitting and opened by key or code.
verrou: A bar that slides into place to hold a door securely shut.
loquet: A basic small fastening fitted to a door or window and operated by hand.
clé: A shaped metal instrument used by turning it in a lock to open or close it.

Definition in French

Mécanisme incorporé dans une porte, un coffre ou un meuble destiné à empêcher l'ouverture sans la bonne clé ou combinaison.

Word origin

The noun developed in medieval French as ser(e)ure from serrer, and ultimately traces to Latin sera, meaning a bar or bolt used for closure.

Usage tips

  • Serrure means a built-in lock, whereas cadenas means a portable padlock attached from outside.

Related words

  • serrurierlocksmithnoun
  • serrurerielocksmith shopnoun

Word lists with this word