Warded lock
![An old-style warded lock which is rim mounted to a door.](/Images/godic/202502/20/Lock1358.jpg")
![MechanismThe key enters the lock through a keyhole (green).When the key is fully inserted, a cavity in the tip of the key fits over a cylindrical post inside the lock. This provides a pivot point about which the key can rotate.The notches in the key align with the obstructions, or wards, allowing it to rotate freely. In rotating, the key may then activate a lever or sliding bolt to open the lock.](/Images/godic/202502/20/Warded_locked1358.png")
![](/Images/godic/202502/20/Warded_with_key1358.png")
![](/Images/godic/202502/20/Warded_unlocked1358.png")
A warded lock (also called a ward lock) is a type of lock that uses a set of obstructions, or wards, to prevent the lock from opening unless the correct key is inserted. The correct key has notches or slots corresponding to the obstructions in the lock, allowing it to rotate freely inside the lock.