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Gridlock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gridlock

[ˈɡrɪd.lɒk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

traffic congestion

Gridlock refers to a situation where traffic in a road network reaches a complete standstill due to the overwhelming volume of vehicles. It is characterized by a complete lack of movement, resulting in significant delays and frustration for drivers.

Synonyms

congestion, standstill, traffic jam.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gridlock

Used to describe a situation where traffic cannot move in any direction due to complete saturation of vehicles. Often arises in busy city centers during peak hours.

  • The protest downtown caused a gridlock, and it took hours to clear the streets.
  • We were stuck in gridlock for over an hour on our way to the stadium.
traffic jam

A common phrase used to describe heavy traffic conditions where vehicles are moving very slowly or are stopped. Often used in everyday language.

  • I was late because of a massive traffic jam on the freeway.
  • We got caught in a traffic jam and missed the flight.
standstill

Describes a situation where all movement has stopped completely, often temporarily. Can be used in traffic as well as in other contexts like business or processes.

  • A major accident ahead brought traffic to a standstill.
  • The negotiation process has reached a standstill.
congestion

Typically used to describe a general state of heavy traffic where movement is slowed but not completely stopped. Common during rush hours on main roads.

  • Traffic congestion is a daily issue during the rush hour commute.
  • Air pollution tends to be higher in areas with heavy congestion.

Examples of usage

  • The city experienced gridlock during rush hour as commuters tried to make their way home.
  • The gridlock on the highway lasted for hours, causing many drivers to abandon their cars and walk instead.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Urban Planning

  • Gridlock often occurs in cities with a dense layout and high traffic volume, highlighting the challenges of urban transportation.
  • Effective public transport systems, like buses and subways, aim to reduce gridlock by providing alternatives to car travel.

Psychology

  • Experiencing gridlock can lead to stress and frustration for drivers, often resulting in road rage or anxiety.
  • The feeling of being stuck can also apply to decision-making situations in life, where progress is hindered by too many options.

Pop Culture

  • Gridlock has been referenced in various films and TV shows, symbolizing chaos and the inability to progress.
  • In the 1999 movie 'The Matrix', a scene features characters navigating through prolonged traffic gridlock, emphasizing themes of control and entrapment.

Origin of 'gridlock'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'gridlock' first appeared in the 1980s, combining 'grid' (a pattern of intersecting lines) and 'lock' (to secure or stop).
  • It originally described a traffic situation in San Francisco, where vehicles were stopped due to a block in the road.

The term 'gridlock' originated in the 1970s in the United States, initially used to describe political stalemates. It gained popularity in the context of traffic congestion shortly after, becoming a widely recognized term for situations of complete road blockage. The word combines 'grid' as in a network of intersecting streets and 'lock' as in the state of being immovable or stuck.

See also: grid, gridlocked.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,820 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.