I. ˈpadˌläk noun
Etymology: Middle English padlok, probably from pad padlock + lok lock — more at lock
: a removable lock with a hinged or pivoted or sometimes sliding shackle that can be opened so as to pass through an eye (as of a staple, ring, link) and then closed so that the entire device hangs suspended and holds something (as a hasp) securely fastened
II. transitive verb
1. : to lock with or as if with a padlock : secure or fasten or keep closed or check with or as if with a padlock
saw him padlock the rickety door behind us — Francis Stuart
padlocked the gate
padlocking their efforts to express themselves freely
2. : to officially bar (as by an injunction, administrative order) entrance into or use of (as a hotel, theater, factory) as a means of enforcing a statute or of abating a nuisance
padlocking conspicuous restaurants and resorts where the laws have been contemptuously defied — Review of Reviews
III. noun
Etymology: padlock (II)
: an official closing by padlocking
the injunction is then carried through to final order and a padlock for one year is attempted — U.S. Daily