DictionarINQ: Lock in
LOCK IN
/ˌläk ˈin/
Verb
To focus on a specific task or activity; To fully commit or dedicate oneself to achieve a particular goal; To concentrate (in an intense manner)
WHAT IS “LOCK IN”
ORIGIN
The term emerged from the field of sports and gaming, where athletes and players, respectively, would completely immerse themselves into the game in order to “lock in” their target and eventually win the competition.
“The Great Lock In,” a viral social media trend that sparked in 2025 popularized this phrase in recent times. The movement encourages individuals to dedicate weeks or months to reach their personal goals (mainly involving self-development) by creating routines and removing distractions.
EXAMPLES
“Watching Physical: Asia made me want to lock in at the gym.”
”I really want to pass my Algebra test. I will start locking in.”

