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interlock

 - 3 dictionary results

in⋅ter⋅lock

[v. in-ter-lok, in-ter-lok; n. in-ter-lok]
–verb (used without object)
1. to fit into each other, as parts of machinery, so that all action is synchronized.
2. to interweave or interlace, one with another: The branches of the trees interlock to form a natural archway.
3. Railroads. (of switches, signals, etc.) to operate together in a prearranged order.
–verb (used with object)
4. to lock one with another.
5. to fit (parts) together to ensure coordinated action.
6. Railroads. to arrange (switches, signals, etc.) to effect a predetermined sequence of movement.
–noun
7. the fact or condition of interlocking or of being interlocked.
8. the existence or an instance of an interlocking directorate.
9. a device for preventing a mechanism from being set in motion when another mechanism is in such a position that the two operating simultaneously might produce undesirable results.
10. Also called ignition interlock. a device or system that prevents an automotive engine from starting until the seat belt for any occupied front seat is fastened.
11. a stretch fabric made with a circular knitting machine having two alternating sets of long and short needles.
12. Movies. a device for synchronizing the action of a camera and sound recorder.

Origin:
1625–35; inter- + lock 1


in⋅ter⋅lock⋅er, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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in·ter·lock   (ĭn'tər-lŏk')   
v.   in·ter·locked, in·ter·lock·ing, in·ter·locks

v.   tr.
  1. To unite or join closely as by hooking or dovetailing.

  2. To connect together (parts of a mechanism, for example) so that the individual parts affect each other in motion or operation.

v.   intr.
To become united or joined closely, as by hooking or dovetailing.
n.   (ĭn'tər-lŏk')
  1. A mechanical device that prevents a component from functioning when another component is functioning or situated in a particular way.

  2. A stretchy fabric knitted with interlocking stitches by alternating sets of needles on a circular knitting machine.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Legal Dictionary

Main Entry: in·ter·lock
Pronunciation: "in-t&r-'läk
Function: intransitive verb
: to be or become mutually connected; also : to be consistent in regard to major elements interlock>
Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law, © 1996 Merriam-Webster, Inc.
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