interlock

1.

/ˌɪntərˈlɑk/

coordinate or join up so that all parts work together

2.

/ˈɪntərˌlɒk/

the act of interlocking or meshing

Other forms: interlocking; interlocked; interlocks

When things interlock with each other, they fit or work together. When a bicycle is properly built, all of its separate parts interlock.

The parts of a machine have to interlock for it to work well: gears must interlock with each other, for example. You can also interlock fingers with another person, holding hands so that they're laced together. This verb, dating from the 17th century, combines inter-, "between" and lock, "to close or to lock," from an Old English root.

Definitions of interlock (/ˌɪntərˈlɑk/)

1. verb

   coordinate in such a way that all parts work together effectively
   synonyms: mesh

   type of:

   coordinate, organise, organize

   bring order and organization to
2. verb

   become engaged or intermeshed with one another
   synonyms: lock

   type of:

   bosom, embrace, hug, squeeze

   squeeze (someone) tightly in your arms, usually with fondness
3. verb

   hold in a locking position
   synonyms: interlace, lock

   type of:

   hold, take hold

   have or hold in one's hands or grip