/ded"lok'/ , n.
1. a state in which progress is impossible, as in a dispute, produced by the counteraction of opposing forces; standstill; stalemate: The union and management reached a deadlock over fringe benefits.
2. deadbolt.
3. a maximum-security cell for the solitary confinement of a prisoner.
v.t. , v.i.
4. to bring or come to a deadlock.
[ 1770-80; DEAD + LOCK 1 ]
Syn. 1. standoff, impasse, draw.