Stuck in a situation where no progress can be made because two or more sides are unwilling to compromise or agree.
From 'dead' (complete, absolute) and 'lock' (to fasten firmly). Originally a mechanical term referring to a lock that held absolutely firm; it became figurative in the 1800s to describe situations where negotiations or progress came to an absolute standstill.
The word 'deadlock' emerged during labor disputes and political negotiations in the 19th century—when labor unions and factory owners were completely at odds with no way forward, journalists borrowed the mechanical term to describe the human stalemate.
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