Definition

A special room that is completely sealed and used to move between two areas without letting air or water escape. It is often found in spaceships or submarines.

Example

The astronauts used the airlock to safely exit the spacecraft.

Conversation

Have you ever seen an airlock in a movie?

Yeah, they always look so cool, especially in sci-fi films.

I read that they are used to keep air pressure stable in space.

That makes sense! Without an airlock, everything would just float away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Airlock → The word is formed from "air" (from Old English "ær", meaning the invisible gaseous substance surrounding the Earth) and "lock" (from Old English "locc", meaning a fastening or closure). An airlock is a chamber that allows the passage of air while preventing the escape of air or pressure, functioning as a secure closure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'air' as the substance around us and 'lock' as a way to secure something. An airlock is a secure way to manage air pressure.

Visually Confused Words