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Databases & SQL

Deadlock

/ˈdedlɒk/

Definition

A state where two transactions each wait for a lock held by the other, causing both to halt indefinitely.

Example in context

"Transaction A holds lock on users and waits for orders; transaction B holds orders and waits for users — deadlock."

Related terms

  • Transaction — A unit of work that groups multiple database operations to execute atomically — all succeed or all roll back.

Practice this term

Master Deadlock in context by working through exercises in the Databases & SQL module. You'll see the term used in real engineering scenarios with multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and matching drills.

Practice in exercises → Browse all words

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Deadlock" mean?

A state where two transactions each wait for a lock held by the other, causing both to halt indefinitely.

How do you pronounce "Deadlock"?

"Deadlock" is pronounced /ˈdedlɒk/.

Can you use "Deadlock" in a sentence?

"Transaction A holds lock on users and waits for orders; transaction B holds orders and waits for users — deadlock."