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Definition of gridlocked

gridlocked

/ˈɡrɪd.lɑːkt/
grid · locked
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gridlocked Lexical Profile

gridlocked Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Completely congested with vehicular traffic so that little or no movement is possible.

Example

"Commuters were stuck for hours on the gridlocked highway after the morning snowstorm."

2

Unable to make progress or reach an agreement because of a severe impasse or conflicting interests, especially in politics or governance.

Example

"The gridlocked legislature failed to pass a budget before the fiscal deadline."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

griddlecake
gridiron
gridlock
gridlocked
grief
griefer
griefing

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in New York City in 1980 by transportation planner Sam Schwartz, originally referring to traffic jamming an entire street grid.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gridlocked. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gridlocked
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