Definition

A type of hold used in wrestling where one person wraps their arm around the head of another person to control them.

Example

The wrestler put his opponent in a headlock to gain an advantage during the match.

Conversation

Did you see that move he pulled off in the match last night?

Yeah, I can't believe he got his opponent in a headlock so quickly!

I know, right? That headlock was impressive; it was like he had it all planned out.

Totally! It's amazing how skilled these wrestlers are.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Headlock → The word is formed from "head" (from Old English "heafod", meaning the upper part of the body) and "lock" (from Old English "locc", meaning to enclose or fasten). A headlock is a hold that encloses or fastens around the head.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'head' as the upper part of the body being 'enclosed' or 'fastened' by a 'lock' — that's what a headlock does.

Visually Confused Words