gridlock
n. uncountable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɡɹɪdˌɫɑk// UK //ɡɹˈɪdlɒk// grid·lock
n. a situation where nothing can move because everything is blocked. It often describes heavy traffic or a political situation where no one can agree.
n. a state of total blockage or stalemate, typically in traffic or political negotiations. Often used to describe a situation where progress is impossible due to conflicting interests or physical obstructions.
The city is in gridlock because of the construction.
The debate ended in gridlock as neither side was willing to compromise on the budget cuts.
Urban planners are struggling to alleviate the gridlock that occurs every morning when thousands of commuters converge on the downtown area simultaneously.
From grid + lock.