headlock

noun

head·​lock ˈhed-ˌläk How to pronounce headlock (audio)
: a hold in which a wrestler encircles an opponent's head with one arm

Examples of headlock in a Sentence

He had me in a headlock.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Heimuli was unable to break the headlock and was eventually pinned as time expired to end the first period for her first loss after 42 wins this season. Rick Kretzschmar, Dallas Morning News, 14 Feb. 2026 Had his childhood dream come true, Kaszas would be supporting himself by executing body slams, headlocks and double leg takedowns as a professional wrestler. George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026 The two exchanged punches before Stewart grabbed hold of Bridges and put him in a headlock, before coaches, security and players finally separated everyone involved. Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2026 In one instance, Aronson put a baby in a headlock, CBS Philadelphia reported at the time. Joe Brandt, CBS News, 22 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for headlock

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of headlock was in 1876

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Headlock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headlock. Accessed 20 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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