This lock symbol means that if you click on that lock symbol of an app , that app will not closed or removed from RAM even if you clear memory. This allows app to stay in memory and prevents its from being closed automatically by Android or if you clear the memory.
What does the lock symbol mean on my Android?
The key or lock icon is the Android symbol for VPN service. It will remain within the notification bar when Safe Browsing is enabled. Note: Information is for devices running Android 6.0+
Why is there a lock icon in my search bar?
The padlock icon on your browser means that you are browsing a secured website. These websites are using HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure), a secure protocol that web servers use to communicate with your web browser.