locket

Everyday

A small piece of jewellery that opens like a tiny box, hung on a chain round the neck, holding a photo, a lock of hair or a keepsake. tree →

In the lessons

In stories lockets hold a picture of a loved one and often help solve a mystery: a lost child is recognised by her mother's locket. In everyday life, a locket can be a gift from a grandparent. Phrases: «a gold locket», «a heart-shaped locket».

Examples

• Gran gave me a silver locket with Mum's photo inside. tree →
• She opened the locket to show a lock of baby hair. tree →
• The orphan was recognised by the locket round her neck. tree →
• A heart-shaped locket hung on a thin chain. tree →
• The detective found a broken locket on the floor. tree →
• He wore his father's locket for luck. tree →

Note

Countable. Not the same as «locker» (a cupboard that locks) or «lock».