headlock

noun

head·​lock ˈhed-ˌläk How to pronounce headlock (audio)
: a hold in which a wrestler encircles an opponent's head with one arm

Examples of headlock in a Sentence

He had me in a headlock.
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 suspect allegedly put the victim in a headlock, strangling him, and preventing him from breathing. — Colleen Cronin, Boston Herald, 1 June 2026 This match began with three consecutive side headlock takeovers by Darby Allin for three nearfalls. — Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026 Records indicate that Cuadra attempted to defend himself with a crowbar before the suspect placed him in a headlock and shot him in the head during the struggle. — Julianna Bragg, CNN Money, 4 June 2026 Stephenson, who now plays for Miami 305, appeared to tackle LA Riot's Devin Ebanks on a drive to the basket before briefly putting him in a headlock. — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for headlock

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of headlock was in 1876

Rhymes for headlock

See All Rhymes for headlock

Browse Nearby Words

headload
headlock
head log
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Headlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headlock. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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