deadlock
deadlock Lexical Profile
deadlock Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A situation, typically one involving opposing parties in a dispute or negotiation, in which no progress can be made because neither side is willing to compromise.
"A neutral mediator was brought in to help break the deadlock between the management team and the labor union."
In computing, a condition in which two or more processes are unable to proceed because each is waiting for the other to release a shared resource.
"The database administrator redesigned the transaction queue to prevent a system deadlock during peak traffic."
British A heavy mechanical lock whose bolt is moved directly by turning a key rather than by a spring action.
"The locksmith installed a five-lever mortise deadlock on the front door for added home security."
• verb
To cause (a negotiation, process, or group) to reach a point where no further progress or agreement is possible, or to come to such a standstill.
"The jury deadlocked after three days of deliberation, forcing the judge to declare a mistrial."
British To secure (a door or vehicle) using a deadlock.
"Always remember to deadlock the back door before leaving the house for the weekend."
• Rhymes for deadlock
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 18th century (popularized by Richard Brinsley Sheridan's 1779 play 'The Critic'), the term combines 'dead' in the sense of 'complete' or 'absolute' with 'lock', referring to a physical lock without a spring or a state of complete standstill.