Definition

A strong grip or hold, often used in wrestling where one person's arm is bent behind their back.

Example

The wrestler applied a hammerlock to his opponent, making it hard for him to escape.

Conversation

Did you see that wrestling match last night?

Yeah, it was intense! That guy had his opponent in a hammerlock for so long.

I know, right? It looked like he was never going to get out of it.

Totally! That move really showed his dominance in the ring.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hammerlock → The word is formed from "hammer" (from Old English *hamor*, meaning a tool for striking) and "lock" (from Old English *locc*, meaning to fasten or secure). A hammerlock refers to a hold or grip that resembles the action of striking with a hammer, often used in wrestling or martial arts to immobilize an opponent.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'hammer' as a tool that strikes and a 'lock' as something that secures. This helps you remember that a hammerlock is a grip that secures or immobilizes, much like a hammer strikes to secure something in place.

Visually Confused Words