deadlock
noun
a state in which progress is impossible, as in a dispute, produced by the counteraction of opposing forces; standstill; stalemate.
deadlocking
-
present participleof deadlock.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A previous trial against Atkins earlier this year ended with jurors acquitting him of first-degree murder and deadlocking on a second-degree murder charge.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2026
But the second pathway makes it complicated, because there are 17 deadlocking nations in pots one, two and three.
From BBC ● Dec. 4, 2025
Jurors deliberated for several days, deadlocking more than once, prompting the judge to urge them to continue deliberating to reach a unanimous verdict.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 14, 2023
The jury wound up acquitting the men of many charges and deadlocking on the murder charge, leading to a mistrial.
From Washington Post ● Aug. 21, 2019
One day during afternoon rec, when I was deadlocking all the cells, he called me back to his.
From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover
