Word Document Locked for Editing Fix [2026]

Quick Answer: Word file locked because ~$owner file exists or Word process hung. Delete the hidden ~$file and end WINWORD.EXE in Task Manager.

Fix

Delete Owner File

1. File Explorer → View → Show hidden files
2. Delete ~$filename.docx in same folder

End Word Process

Task Manager → Details → WINWORD.EXE → End task

Check OneDrive

Ensure file not syncing or open elsewhere.

How Againly Helps

Againly can inspect the relevant local evidence and propose a fix plan for review.

[CTA: Try free diagnosis]