noun Wrestling. a hold in which a wrestler, from behind the opponent, passes one arm under the corresponding arm of the opponent and locks the hand on the back of the opponent's neck.

What does half nelson mean in slang?

: a wrestling hold in which one arm is thrust under the corresponding arm of an opponent and the hand placed on the back of the opponent's neck — compare full nelson.

Why is it called a half nelson?

Ryan Gosling received his first Academy Award nomination in the 'Best Actor' category for this movie. ... The film's title "Half Nelson" refers to a wrestling hold in which one arm is passed under the opponent's arm from behind to the back of the neck.