Pronunciation: [hˈaməlˌɒk] (IPA) 
The word "hammerlock" is spelled h-æ-m-ər-l-ɑːk. The first syllable "ham" is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by the "ər" sound in the second syllable. The "l" is silent in the spelling, but the final syllable "lock" is pronounced with a long "a" sound. A hammerlock is a wrestling move that immobilizes an opponent's arm behind their back. This move is also used in other combat and martial arts disciplines.
A hammerlock is a noun that refers to a wrestling or self-defense hold in which one person's arm is twisted and immobilized behind their back. The term is derived from the use of a hammer in shaping or bending metal, as it involves locking the opponent's arm in a position similar to the shape of a hammer. It is primarily applied in grappling sports and martial arts, such as professional wrestling, judo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
In a hammerlock, the attacker typically grips their opponent's wrist, placing it on their back with the elbow bent. By using leverage and applying pressure, they force the opponent's arm into a vulnerable and painful position. The effectiveness of a hammerlock lies in its ability to restrain and control the opponent's movements while inflicting discomfort or pain.
This technique is commonly executed during groundwork, as well as in standing positions, for submission or immobilization purposes. Its application requires proper training and skill, as an improperly performed hammerlock can cause injury to the opponent's shoulder, elbow, or wrist. By maintaining a hammerlock, a wrestler or martial artist gains a positional advantage, enabling them to dictate the flow of the match or encounter.
Overall, a hammerlock is a technique used in combat sports and self-defense scenarios, involving the immobilization of an opponent's arm by twisting it behind their back.
The word hammerlock originates from the combination of the words hammer and lock. The term hammer refers to the tool used to deliver strong blows or to strike objects forcefully, while lock refers to a hold or grip designed to immobilize or control someone. The action of using a hammer-like force to apply a lock or hold on an opponent's arm, specifically in wrestling or martial arts, led to the creation of the term hammerlock.
