låsing

Låsing is a noun used in Swedish and Norwegian to denote the act or result of locking something. It derives from the word for lock (lås) with the agentive suffix -ing. The term is used across everyday security, technical contexts, and computing to describe both physical and metaphorical forms of securing or immobilizing.

In everyday use, låsing refers to devices and processes that prevent access or movement. The most common forms are mechanical locks such as cylinder and pin-tumbler locks, warded locks, deadbolts, padlocks, and latch systems. Locks are typically operated by keys, but can also use combinations, rotors, or electronic credentials.

Electronic and smart locking has become widespread in homes and businesses. These systems employ technologies such as RFID, Bluetooth, NFC, or keypad entry, and are often integrated with home automation. Features may include auto-locking, tamper alarms, and remote control through apps.

In vehicles and machinery, låsing encompasses immobilization or securing rotating or moving parts. Examples include steering wheel locks, gear or shaft locking devices, and parking or brake locks designed to prevent unintended motion.

In information technology, låsning describes mechanisms that restrict access to shared resources to avoid conflicts or data corruption. This includes mutexes, semaphores, and database locking modes (shared versus exclusive) that coordinate concurrent operations.

Historically, locks have served practical security needs and social signaling of ownership. They continue to evolve with advancing materials, electronics, and digital security practices.

See also lock, lock picking, security, access control, database locking.