tick a lock

== English == === Etymology === (This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.) === Verb === tick a lock (third-person singular simple present ticks a lock, present participle ticking a lock, simple past and past participle ticked a lock) To keep quiet or keep a secret. ==== Usage notes ==== Usually accompanied by a turning gesture with the hand in front of the lips, as if turning a key in a lock.