locke: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Academic, Historical
Quick answer
What does “locke” mean?
A proper noun.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun; the surname of the 17th-century English philosopher John Locke.
Almost exclusively used in historical, academic, or philosophical contexts to refer to John Locke, his work, or related ideas (e.g., Lockean).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage; the philosopher is equally referenced in British and American academic contexts.
Connotations
Connotes empiricism, liberalism, social contract theory, and the concept of 'tabula rasa'.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse. Used with similar frequency in academic texts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “locke” in a Sentence
[Preposition 'of'] the ideas of Locke[Adjectival 'Lockean'] Lockean theoryVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “locke” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- Lockean concepts
- a Lockean perspective on rights
American English
- Lockean philosophy
- Lockean social contract theory
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Primary context: 'Locke's theory of property was influential.' 'This aligns with Lockean principles.'
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used in philosophy, political science, and history.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “locke”
- Using it as a common noun or verb.
- Misspelling as 'Lock' when referring specifically to the philosopher.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is almost exclusively used as the surname of the philosopher John Locke.
No. The common verb is 'lock' (without the 'e'). 'Locke' is a proper noun.
It is the adjective form, meaning 'relating to or characteristic of the philosophy of John Locke'.
It is pronounced identically to the word 'lock': /lɒk/ in British English and /lɑːk/ in American English.
A proper noun.
Locke is usually academic, historical in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a lock and key: Locke's ideas were key to modern empiricism.
Conceptual Metaphor
FOUNDATION (Locke's ideas are seen as a foundation for modern liberal thought).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the name 'Locke' most significant?