alcolock: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low frequency; technical/legal/regulatory term.Formal, technical, legal, regulatory; used in official documents, news reports on road safety, and by law enforcement.
Quick answer
What does “alcolock” mean?
A breathalyzer device installed in a vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if the driver's breath alcohol concentration exceeds a preset limit.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A breathalyzer device installed in a vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if the driver's breath alcohol concentration exceeds a preset limit.
Any system or technology designed to prevent operation of machinery or access to a controlled environment when alcohol impairment is detected.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is understood in both varieties but may be more common in official UK/EU road safety contexts. In North America, 'ignition interlock device (IID)' is the more common formal term.
Connotations
In UK usage, 'alcolock' has a direct, technical connotation tied to legislation (e.g., for repeat offenders or commercial vehicles). In US usage, the term may sound slightly more generic or commercial-brand-like compared to the legalistic 'IID'.
Frequency
Low frequency in general public discourse but higher in specific contexts like transport policy, law, and vehicle technology.
Grammar
How to Use “alcolock” in a Sentence
The {court} ordered the {installation} of an alcolock.The {lorry} was fitted with an alcolock as per {new regulations}.{Drivers} must blow into the alcolock to {start the engine}.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “alcolock” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The new law requires an alcolock for any driver convicted twice of drink-driving.
- The haulage company has fitted alcolocks in all its lorries as a safety precaution.
American English
- The judge sentenced him to a year with an alcolock in his car.
- While 'ignition interlock' is standard here, some brands market their product as an alcolock system.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In fleet management for transport companies to ensure driver safety and compliance.
Academic
In studies on road safety, deterrence theory, and the effectiveness of technological countermeasures against drink-driving.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation unless discussing specific legal penalties or news items about road safety laws.
Technical
Precise term in automotive engineering, forensic technology, and legal statutes concerning impaired driving.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “alcolock”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “alcolock”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “alcolock”
- Using 'alcolock' to refer to a handheld personal breathalyzer (it is specifically an installed, interlocked system).
- Spelling as 'alcoholock' (though sometimes seen, the standard is without the second 'h').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A breathalyzer is a general device for measuring breath alcohol content. An alcolock is a specific type of breathalyzer that is connected to a vehicle's ignition system to prevent it from starting if alcohol is detected above a set limit.
They are most commonly mandated by courts for individuals convicted of drink-driving (DUI/DWI), especially repeat offenders. They are also increasingly used by commercial transport companies for fleet safety.
Modern devices have anti-circumvention features like rolling re-tests (requiring another breath sample while driving), cameras, and data logging. Tampering or attempting to bypass one typically violates the court order or program rules, resulting in penalties.
Yes, typically the offender is responsible for all costs associated with the alcolock program, including installation, monthly leasing/fees, calibration, and removal.
A breathalyzer device installed in a vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if the driver's breath alcohol concentration exceeds a preset limit.
Alcolock is usually formal, technical, legal, regulatory; used in official documents, news reports on road safety, and by law enforcement. in register.
Alcolock: in British English it is pronounced /ˈælkəʊˌlɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈælkəˌlɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “on the alcolock (informal for being legally required to use one)”
- “an alcolock order (a court mandate to install the device)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'ALCOhol LOCKs' the ignition. The device LOCKS you out if it detects ALCOhol.
Conceptual Metaphor
A GUARDIAN or GATEKEEPER for the vehicle; a TECHNOLOGICAL PROBATION OFFICER.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of an alcolock?