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 country is dealing with a growing debt crisis, a budget deadlock, and widespread protests. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2026 The most likely outcome of the upcoming elections, Levy said, would be some form of deadlock, in which case Netanyahu would continue serving as caretaker prime minister until a new government is sworn in. — Amelie Botbol, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026 The election late Tuesday was a significant moment in a political crisis in the small Balkan nation that has caused legislative deadlock for over 19 months and two early parliamentary elections. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026 Or there could be a deadlock and yet another election next year. — David Remnick, New Yorker, 7 Oct. 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
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Cite this Entry

“Deadlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deadlock. Accessed 14 Oct. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about deadlock

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