Headlock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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headlock
[ˈhɛdˌlɒk ]
Definition
wrestling move
A headlock is a grappling hold in which one person encircles the opponent's head with their arm, usually while leveraging their weight to exert pressure. It is commonly used in wrestling and martial arts as a means of controlling or subduing an opponent. The headlock can also render the opponent vulnerable to further attacks or submissions. Variations of headlocks may involve different positioning or techniques, but the core concept remains the same.
Synonyms
grapple, head hold, neck hold.
Examples of usage
- He put his opponent in a headlock during the match.
- She learned how to escape from a headlock.
- The wrestler secured a headlock to gain an advantage.
Translations
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Origin of 'headlock'
The term 'headlock' has its origins in the sport of wrestling, where various techniques were developed to gain control over opponents. The word 'head' comes from Old English 'heafod', which refers to the upper part of the body. 'Lock' derives from the Middle English 'loc' which means to fasten or secure something. As wrestling evolved through the centuries, the headlock became a standardized move, integrating various cultural styles from ancient Greece and Rome to modern-day martial arts. The term has been widely adopted in both recreational and competitive contexts, leading to its recognition in sports terminology and casual conversations alike.