nelson

noun nel·son \ˈnel-sən\

Definition of NELSON

: a wrestling hold marked by the application of leverage against an opponent's arm, neck, and head — compare full nelson, half nelson

probably from the name Nelson

First Known Use: 1889

biographical name Nel·son \ˈnel-sən\

Horatio 1758–1805 Viscount Nelson British admiral

geographical name Nel·son \ˈnel-sən\

river 400 miles (644 kilometers) Canada in Manitoba flowing from N end of Lake Winnipeg to Hudson Bay

city & port New Zealand on N coast of South Island pop 37,943

Next Word in the Dictionary: Nelson bighorn sheepPrevious Word in the Dictionary: nelmaAll Words Near: nelson

What made you want to look up nelson? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears