What does “Locked in” mean?
“Locked in” is a slang phrase meaning extra focused. When someone says they’re “Locked in,” it often means they’re totally focused on doing something—whether it’s a task, goal, or activity. Saying you’re “Locked in” is like saying you aren’t paying attention to anything else at the moment and won’t let yourself get distracted from the matter at hand. “I’m locked in studying and ready for tomorrow’s test!” “Can’t talk—I’m locked in with this movie. It’s sooo good!”
“Locked in” means committed or loyal in terms of relationships. Being “locked in” to a relationship means you’re serious about it and aren’t planning on breaking up anytime in the foreseeable future. It’s like saying the relationship has been locked—and only you and your partner have its key. If you’re “Locked in,” you’re loyal and dedicated to your partner. “Meg and I are def locked in. She’s the best!” “Did you hear? Zendaya and Tom Holland are totally locked in!”
“Locked in” also means being ready for something. Sometimes, saying you’re “Locked in” is like saying you’re preparing yourself for something and getting ready to go. You might say you’re “Locked in” for something or “Going to lock in” if you plan to get ready soon. For example: “Time to lock in for the party! It’s gonna be awesome!” “Locked in and pumped for the concert tonight. Who else is ready?”
How to Use “Locked In”
Use “Locked in” to describe your level of focus (or someone else’s). If you want someone to know that you’re super focused and can’t hang out or deal with any distractions, you can use “Locked in” to do it. Similarly, you can use “Locked in” to show someone you’re taking a goal seriously (and that it’s important to you). “I’m locked in and loving this new video game!” “Gotta lock in and finish a project for next week.”
Clarify whether a relationship is serious or casual with “Locked in.” Someone might ask you if you’re dating casually or in a serious relationship with someone. When it’s the latter, you can use “Locked in” to show them your relationship is 100% committed—a sure thing. For example: Them: “Are you still seeing Ben?” You: “Are you kidding? We’re locked in for life!”
Signal when you’re ready to do something. When coordinating plans with a friend, you could use “Locked in” to tell them you’re good to go—or let them know when you’re starting to get ready (so they’ll know when to do the same). The phrase can basically be like a status update you text people! “Locked in for the movie! How about you?” “Gonna get locked in for Sam’s birthday. I’ll text when I’m omw!”
Non-Slang Meaning of “Locked In”
Outside of slang, “Locked in” means being stuck or locked into something. This can be both literal and figurative. For example, you might get physically locked into a room. On the other hand, “Locked in” can mean something can’t be changed or adjusted; you might describe interest rates as being “locked in,” or a decision as “locked in” if it’s finalized once and for all. “That sounds like a pretty great mortgage rate! Lock it in before it changes!” “They’ve been locked in discussions all week; they haven’t agreed to a deal yet.” “Type your answer, then press ‘Continue’ to lock it in.” “Uh oh, I’m locked in the bathroom! I think the door isn’t working right.”
Origins of “Locked In”
“Locked in” may have originated as a slang term in 2009. UrbanDictionary’s “Locked in” entry was initially added in 2009, when user NicLydon defined the phrase as “Get extra extra focused on your dreams.” Then, in 2011, users on X (formerly Twitter) began posting with the phrase “Lock in” or “Locked in,” though the term only gained widespread popularity in 2023. In 2023, a meme began circulating with a crying emoji saying, “When the Face ID f***ing up, and I gotta lock in.” Another meme with pictures of a crying and then straight-faced baby saying, “When you gotta lock in,” also circulated in 2023. Throughout 2023 and 20224, “Locked in” has become much more mainstream as a slang term.
Similar Phrases to “Locked In”
On lock Having something “On lock” means it’s practically set in stone or an absolute certainty. It also implies that something is easily achievable. You might describe a skill as “On lock” if you’re sure you’ve mastered it or a promotion as “On lock” if it’s been confirmed already. Them: “Wow, you’ve been learning to draw?” You: “Yeah, I’ve got it on lock now! I’m gonna start taking commissions!”
Lock me in “Lock me in” is a request; when someone says it, they’re telling you to save their information (in your phone, for example). You might tell someone, “Lock me in,” after giving them your number or information associated with a social media account. You can also say “Locked in” when you’ve put someone’s number in your phone (or given them yours). Them: “Can I get your number?” You: “Sure, here you go! Lock me in!”
On point “On point” means something is perfect or exactly right. It’s often used to describe someone’s look or fashion sense, but it can also express satisfaction about something. For example, you might say someone’s outfit is on point if you think it looks great—or that the food at a restaurant was totally on point if it was delicious. Them: “How’s your dinner?” You: “These tacos are on point! What kind of magic ingredients are they using?!”
Coming for necks Someone who’s “Coming for necks” means business—they’re focused, determined to do something well, and aren’t playing around. The phrase is often used to describe artists or athletes doing exceptionally well (and the quality of their work). For example: “Whoa, have you heard Sabrina Carpenter’s new album? She’s coming for necks!!” “Lionel Messi is coming for necks this season! You love to see it.”
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