What does wristlock mean?
A wristlock is a hold in which one person grips an opponent's wrist or hand and controls the arm by twisting, bending, or otherwise restricting its movement. The technique is associated especially with wrestling, grappling, martial arts, and arm wrestling, where leverage can overcome greater physical strength. As a verb, “wristlock” means to put such a hold on an opponent. The word is more specific than the general term “wrist twist”: a wristlock is a recognized grappling position rather than merely an incidental movement of the wrist. It is also occasionally understood in other physical contexts, such as a forceful restraint of someone's hand. The compound spelling “wristlock” is standard, although “wrist lock” also occurs. Because the term belongs chiefly to combat-sport vocabulary, readers may encounter it in rules discussions, match commentary, and descriptions of self-defence techniques.
A grappling hold in which the wrist and hand of an opponent are gripped and controlled, often with twisting or leverage.
"He maintained the wristlock until the opponent submitted."
Common in wrestling, grappling, martial arts, and arm-wrestling contexts; rules and terminology may vary by discipline.
To grip and control an opponent's wrist or hand with a wristlock.
"She wristlocked him and forced him to release the submission hold."
Usually transitive and used in descriptions of grappling or combat-sport action.
The regular plural is used when referring to several holds of this kind.
"The fighter escaped two wristlocks before reversing the position."
A wristlock turns a contest of strength into a contest of leverage.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of wristlock
Wristlock is an English compound formed from “wrist” and “lock.” “Wrist” derives from Old English wrīst, referring to the joint or slender part between the hand and forearm, while “lock” in the sense of a fastening or restraining device derives from Old English loc. The compound was developed as a transparent name for locking or controlling the wrist.
Related word forms
How wristlock is actually used
Wristlock is primarily a specialist term used in grappling, wrestling, martial arts, and arm wrestling. Its exact use may vary by style and ruleset, and it should not be used as a general term for any mild twisting of the wrist.
Easily confused with wristlock
A wristlock controls the wrist and hand, whereas an arm lock typically immobilizes the elbow or twists the arm at a joint.