Definition

1. Verb:

   • To become engaged or connected together: When two or more parts fit into or connect with each other securely.
   • To coordinate so that parts work together effectively: To organize different elements so they function as a unified, synchronized whole.

2. Noun:

   • The act of interlocking or meshing: The state or action of parts being firmly connected together.
   • A safety or coordinating device: A mechanism designed to prevent one operation from occurring unless another is completed, ensuring safety or proper sequence.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:

  • The pieces of the puzzle interlock perfectly.
  • The two companies interlocked their operations to improve efficiency.
  • The gears must interlock smoothly for the machine to work.

• Noun:

  • The interlock of the gears was faulty, causing the machine to jam.
  • The washing machine has a safety interlock on the door.
  • A perfect interlock between the two systems is required.

Advanced Usage

• "To interlock with": To connect or mesh directly with something else.

  • This software module is designed to interlock with the existing database.

• "Interlocking directorates": A situation where members of a company's board of directors also serve on the boards of other, often related, companies.

  • The investigation focused on the interlocking directorates between the bank and the investment firm.

Variants and Related Words

• Interlocked (adj./verb, past tense): Describes things that have become connected.

  • Their fingers were interlocked.

• Interlocking (adj./noun): Describing parts that connect or the act/state of connection.

  • The interlocking bricks make the wall very strong.

Synonyms

• Mesh: To fit together or engage.
• Engage: To come into contact and interlock (often used for gears).
• Synchronize: To cause to occur or operate at the same time or rate.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Interlock" is not commonly used with particles to form phrasal verbs. Its meaning is typically contained within the single word.)

Related Idioms

• Locked in an embrace: A descriptive phrase for two people holding each other tightly, which implies an interlocking of arms.
  • They were locked in an embrace, unwilling to let go.

Noun

1. the act of interlocking or meshing
   • an interlocking of arms by the police held the crowd in check
2. a device that prevents an automotive engine from starting
   • car theives know how to bypass the ignition interlock

Verb

1. become engaged or intermeshed with one another
   • They were locked in embrace
2. hold in a locking position
   • He locked his hands around her neck
3. coordinate in such a way that all parts work together effectively