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
Evan Nicole Brown: Both of your L.A. shows hinge on a symbol: the five colorful, interlocking Olympic rings. Evan Nicole Brown, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2025 The entire lineup is built upon the repetition of an individual module comprising a polished circular disc or smooth dome flanked by openwork interlocking links on each side. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 5 June 2025
Noun
Virginia's law has rules that are similar to the state's law on Breathalyzer ignition interlocks, said Tara Gill, a senior director of advocacy and state legislation for Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. Terry Collins, USA Today, 12 June 2025 The state Senate this weekend also passed a final version of a bill to strengthen the state’s laws on people who repeatedly drink and drive by expanding the use of ignition interlock devices. Alex Derosier, Twin Cities, 20 May 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interlock. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

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
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