lock-in
/lɒk ɪn/
CommonWhen a pub keeps drinking customers inside after legal closing time, doors locked.
Getting invited to a lock-in signals you are a regular or trusted customer. The clandestine element is half the appeal. It is considered a privilege, not a right.
Real-world examples3 examples
| # | Example | What it means | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | somehow ended up in a lock-in until 3am on a tuesday. no regrets. destroyed at work. | An unexpected after-hours session on a weeknight had consequences the next day. | x, 2024 |
| 02 | when the landlord locks the door and puts another round on the bar you know its gonna be a good night | The lock-in starting is a sign the night is about to get much better. | tiktok, 2023 |
| 03 | nothing bonds people like a surprise lock-in at a village pub | Being kept in after hours creates a shared experience that brings people together. | reddit, 2023 |
Use it when
- Describing being kept in a pub after closing time.
- Telling a story about a memorable late pub night.
- Explaining why you were so late getting home.
Do not use it when
- You mean any situation where you stayed late somewhere.
Origin and context
Rooted in British licensing law history. Until the Licensing Act 2003, pubs had strict closing times. Lock-ins became a widespread tradition allowing regulars to continue drinking after hours with the landlord's trust.
- First seen
- mid-1900s
- Confidence
- medium
Cite this page
Use this stable URL to reference the entry.
https://slang.fyi/lock-inUpdated: 2026-08-28License: CC BY 4.0