interlock

1 of 2

verb

in·​ter·​lock ˌin-tər-ˈläk How to pronounce interlock (audio)
interlocked; interlocking; interlocks

intransitive verb

: to become locked together or interconnected

transitive verb

1
: to lock together : unite
2
: to connect so that the motion or operation of any part is constrained by another

interlock

2 of 2

noun

in·​ter·​lock ˈin-tər-ˌläk How to pronounce interlock (audio)
1
: the quality, state, sense, or an instance of being interlocked
2
: an arrangement in which the operation of one part or mechanism automatically brings about or prevents the operation of another
a safety interlock
3
a
: a stretchable fabric made on a circular knitting machine and consisting of two ribbed fabrics joined by interlocking
b
: a garment made of interlock

Examples of interlock in a Sentence

Verb She interlocked her fingers with his.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
Together, these interlocking stories potently illustrate how valuable, but precarious, our support systems—institutional or intimate—can be. The Atlantic, 4 Dec. 2024 Well, because builders are able to create over 50 dynamic structures using interlocking cubes and hinges and experiencing captivating tectonic-like movement. Toby Rose, Parents, 24 Oct. 2024
Noun
This plan to reduce that centers on ignition interlocks. Chris Ramirez, Journal Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2024 To get there, marketing teams will need to proactively identify stakeholders, define process interlocks, formalize responsibilities, and measure success across six B2C marketing ops disciplines. Forrester, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for interlock 

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1632, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Noun

1874, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of interlock was in 1632

Dictionary Entries Near interlock

Cite this Entry

“Interlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interlock. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

interlock

verb
in·​ter·​lock
ˌint-ər-ˈläk
: to lock together : interlace firmly
a series of rings interlocking to form a chain

Legal Definition

interlock

intransitive verb
in·​ter·​lock ˌin-tər-ˈläk How to pronounce interlock (audio)
: to be or become mutually connected
also : to be consistent in regard to major elements
confessions that interlock

More from Merriam-Webster on interlock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!