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.
00:10
Interlock is one of our favorite verbs.
So is bowdlerise. Does it mean:
to run away hurriedly; flee.
to expurgate (a written work) by removing or modifying passages considered vulgar or objectionable.
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- + lock1

in·ter·lock·er, noun
un·in·ter·locked, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
Cite This Source Link To interlock
Collins
World English Dictionary
interlock
 
vb
1.  to join or be joined firmly, as by a mutual interconnection of parts
 
n
2.  the act of interlocking or the state of being interlocked
3.  a device, esp one operated electromechanically, used in a logic circuit or electrical safety system to prevent an activity being initiated unless preceded by certain events
4.  a closely knitted fabric
 
adj
5.  (of fabric) closely knitted
 
'interlocker
 
n

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Example sentences
Ford will notify owners beginning next week and dealers will inspect for and replace faulty interlock switches.
The reverse has more charming cubs in mittens and booties, all printed on a soft, easily washable cotton interlock.
If the second tip works, you may need a shifter interlock cable adjustment.
The teeth on those gears aren't even and the way they interlock mean they'd
  never turn.
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