deadlock

noun

dead·​lock ˈded-ˌläk How to pronounce deadlock (audio)
Synonyms of deadlocknext
1
: a state of inaction or neutralization resulting from the opposition of equally powerful uncompromising persons or factions : standstill
the deadlock was broken with a key compromise
2
: a tie score
deadlock verb

Synonyms of deadlock

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Examples of deadlock in a Sentence

City councilors reached a deadlock over the law. His goal broke a 3–3 deadlock.
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.
The trial ended in a deadlock when the jury voted 10-2 in favor of the defense. — Terrence O'Brien, The Verge, 28 June 2026 The second retrial also ended in mistrial this May, due to jury deadlock. — Bethy Squires, Vulture, 26 June 2026 After long periods in their own half to start the match, Norway broke the deadlock with a strike from Antonio Nusa that curled into the far corner. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 30 June 2026 Balogun’s fancy footwork broke a scoreless deadlock 45 minutes into the action, booting a left-footed shot through the goalie’s outstretched legs. — Cam Inman, Mercury News, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for deadlock

Word History

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deadlock was in 1781

Rhymes for deadlock

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Browse Nearby Words

dead load
deadlock
dead loss
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deadlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deadlock. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

deadlock

noun
dead·​lock -ˌläk How to pronounce deadlock (audio)
: a stopping of action because both sides in a struggle are equally powerful and neither will give in
deadlock verb

Legal Definition

deadlock

noun
dead·​lock ˈded-ˌläk How to pronounce deadlock (audio)
: a state of inaction resulting from the opposition of equally powerful uncompromising persons or factions: as
a
: the state of a jury unable to agree on a verdict see also allen charge
b
: impasse
c
: a state in which corporate directors are unable to perform their functions because of shareholder voting
deadlock verb

More from Merriam-Webster on deadlock

Nglish: Translation of deadlock for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about deadlock

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