deadlock

Meanings

Plural: deadlocks

Noun

• a situation in which no progress can be made or no advancement is possible
• A standstill resulting from the opposition of two evenly matched forces; a stalemate or impasse.
• An inability to continue due to two programs or devices each requiring a response from the other before completing an operation.
• Synonym of deadbolt (“type of lock”).

Verb

• To cause or come to a deadlock.

Synonyms

dead end, deadbolt, impasse, stalemate, standstill