interlock

[ verb in-ter-lok, in-ter-lok; noun in-ter-lok ]

verb (used without object)

1. to fit into each other, as parts of machinery, so that all action is synchronized.
2. to interweave or interlace, one with another:

   The branches of the trees interlock to form a natural archway.

3. Railroads. (of switches, signals, etc.) to operate together in a prearranged order.

verb (used with object)

1. to lock one with another.
2. to fit (parts) together to ensure coordinated action.
3. Railroads. to arrange (switches, signals, etc.) to effect a predetermined sequence of movement.

noun

1. the fact or condition of interlocking or of being interlocked.
2. the existence or an instance of an interlocking directorate.
3. a device for preventing a mechanism from being set in motion when another mechanism is in such a position that the two operating simultaneously might produce undesirable results.
4. Also called ig·ni·tion in·ter·lock [ig-, nish, -, uh, n , in, -ter-lok]. a device or system that prevents an automotive engine from starting until the seat belt for any occupied front seat is fastened.
5. a stretch fabric made with a circular knitting machine having two alternating sets of long and short needles.
6. Movies. a device for synchronizing the action of a camera and sound recorder.

interlock

verb

1. to join or be joined firmly, as by a mutual interconnection of parts

noun

1. the act of interlocking or the state of being interlocked
2. a device, esp one operated electromechanically, used in a logic circuit or electrical safety system to prevent an activity being initiated unless preceded by certain events
3. a closely knitted fabric

adjective

1. (of fabric) closely knitted

Derived Forms

• ˈinterˌlocker, noun

Other Words From

• in·ter·lock·er noun
• un·in·ter·locked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of interlock¹

First recorded in 1625–35; inter- + lock ¹

Example Sentences

Since his release, a state psychologist conducted a competency evaluation in connection with a May 2022 Benton County charge of DUI, operating a vehicle without an ignition interlock and driving without a license.

From Seattle Times

The spacers prevent the LVP from moving when you start to tap the short edge with the hammer to get the second piece to interlock with the first piece.

From Seattle Times

“Mercury,” which is receiving its West Coast premiere, is composed of independent vignettes that eventually interlock.

From Los Angeles Times

I’m interested in the scripts on the field and off, and the plotlines that interlock.

From Slate

Oh, did I say that many of these boxes are designed to interlock one on top of another as a system?

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• interlace
• interlink
• intertwine