gridlock
noun
the stoppage of free vehicular movement in an urban area because key intersections are blocked by traffic.
gridlocked
-
a word derived from
gridlock.
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.
Long lines of stationary cars and buses were gridlocked on main roads as commuters sought alternative routes -- or even made their way on foot.
From Barron's ● Oct. 2, 2026
Summer at Yellowstone National Park usually means gridlocked traffic and booked-up lodges.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 24, 2026
The rise in visitor numbers since the pandemic has sparked a backlash in many tourism hotspots, prompting the authorities to take steps to ease the pressure on bursting beaches and gridlocked streets.
From Barron's ● Jan. 20, 2026
On some of L.A.’s most gridlocked freeways, the addition of those clean-air cars probably won’t have much impact because conditions are already so bad.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2025
“When it’s time to bail, there are nontraditional routes that most people don’t know. They won’t be gridlocked like the freeways.”
From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
