lock on

If a tracking system does this, it finds a target and keeps following its position automatically.

• The tracking system has locked on.
• The missile locked on to the approaching plane.
• Can the sensor lock on in thick fog?

How to use it: lock on to a target (The radar locked on to the aircraft.)

Similar words: acquire a target

Common phrases: lock on automatically, lock on to something, lock on successfully

To make a missile find a target and automatically follow its position.

• The pilot locked on a missile.
• She locked the missile on to the moving target.
• The operator must lock on the missile before firing.

How to use it: lock a missile on to a target (The pilot locked a missile on to the enemy aircraft.)

Similar words: target

Common phrases: lock on a missile, lock on before firing

To attach yourself to an object or another person during a protest so you cannot easily be removed.

• Several protesters locked on outside the factory.
• They locked on to a fence to delay construction.
• Police tried to remove activists who had locked on together.

How to use it: lock on to something (The protesters locked on to the entrance gates.)

Similar words: chain oneself

Common phrases: lock on together, lock on to something, protesters lock on