Headlock

usgb/ˈhedlɑːk/
noun

A hold in which one person's head is locked under another person's arm.

The wrestler had his opponent in a tight headlock.
Visual representation of "headlock" - A hold in which one person's head is locked under another person's arm

Often appears as...

  • get in a headlock
  • put in a headlock
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "headlock"
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Physical Combat

Used mainly to describe a wrestling or martial arts move, where physical strength is key.

Illustration for Physical Combat
During the Judo match, he quickly grabbed his rival and put him in a headlock.
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Informal Expression

'Headlock' can be used metaphorically in a playful or informal context among friends.

Illustration for Informal Expression
My big brother always messes with me, giving me noogies and putting me in headlocks.
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Power Dynamics

May imply a power imbalance, with one person dominating or controlling another.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
The debate soon turned into a verbal headlock, with one speaker dominating the conversation.
Visual representation of the word "Headlock"

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