gripar

Senses

1. 1.

   to seize up (mechanical failure)

   (of an engine or motor) to jam or lock due to heat, friction, or lack of lubrication

2. 2.

   to freeze up

   to become stiff or immobile, especially in cold conditions

Examples

• "El motor se gripó por falta de aceite."

  The engine seized up due to lack of oil.

• "La cerradura se gripó con el frío."

  The lock froze up in the cold.

• "Si no cambias el aceite, el motor se va a gripar."

  If you don't change the oil, the engine will seize.

Usage

Common in automotive and mechanical contexts. Refers to sudden mechanical failure when parts become immobilized. Can also be used figuratively for systems or processes that get stuck. The preterite form is 'gripé' and the present is 'me gripo', etc.