IdiomDaily Life
Dutch
Dutchachter slot en grendel
Meaning: imprisoned or confined.
Literally: Behind lock and bolt
Example: “De oude brieven liggen achter slot en grendel in de kluis.” — The old letters are under lock and key in the safe.
English equivalent: Under lock and key
Equivalents in other languages
English: under lock and key
Origin: Slot is the lock and grendel the bolt: a door shut with both is securely fastened. Achter slot en grendel (behind lock and bolt) is locked up, in prison or in a safe place. German has the same pair, hinter Schloss und Riegel.
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