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interlock Definition

inter·lock (in′tər läk′, in′tər läk′; for n. in′tər läk′)

transitive verb, intransitive verb

  1. to lock together; join with one another
  2. to connect or be connected so that neither part can be operated independently

noun

  1. the condition of being interlocked
  2. a device or arrangement by means of which the functioning of one part is controlled by the functioning of another, as for safety

interlock Usage Examples

Object

  • tile: With flat interlocking tiles the minimum side lap distance should be 150mm.
  • cube: The hands-on interlocking cubes mean even the youngest children can build words for themselves.
  • slate: For all these reasons it is not advisable to use interlocking slates on any roof with a curve.
  • log: Due to the loose interlocking log ( not sectional ) construction, a level concrete or paved base is required to enable installation.
  • crystal: In this form a number of interlocking silicon crystals grow together.
  • brick: In nearby Ware, Caleb Hitch, a brickmaker of Watton Road, patented a large, non-standard interlocking brick in 1828.

Adjective modifier

  • mechanical: A mechanical back-up interlock is also provided in some cases.
  • electrical: Car doors with electrical interlocks are supplied where entrances are on opposite or adjacent sides.

Modifies a noun

  • switch: Each of the four channels can monitor several interlock switches located on a single plastic fiber loop.
  • device: If an interlock device is fitted, a small metal rod protrudes from the side of the vaporizer, toward the rear.
  • system: System Real Time messages are managed by an intelligent interlock system, which prevents clock stream conflicts - see the state diagram above.

Modifying Another Word

  • electrically: The junction is currently controlled by ground frame electrically interlocked from Wareham signal box.
  • together: These different crystals interlock together to make up the stone.
  • fully: Fully interlocking the controls ensures that this scenario cannot happen.
  • so: The front rows must interlock so that no player's head is next to the head of a team-mate.

Noun used with modifier

  • ignition: In addition, the driver of a car fitted with an alcohol ignition interlock is required to provide further breath samples at random intervals.
  • alcohol: In addition, the driver of a car fitted with an alcohol ignition interlock is required to provide further breath samples at random intervals.
  • safety: All manual models feature a safety interlock to ensure operation cannot commence with the loading doors open.
  • door: The oven door should be tight fitting and the door interlock working.

Infinitive complement

prevent: A self-contained water coolant supply is fully interlocked to prevent furnace operation without coolant flow.