Meaning & use

filibuster

noun·Academic

A tactic, such as an extended speech, used to delay or prevent a vote in a legislature.

See it in a sentence

The senator's filibuster lasted more than twelve hours and stalled the vote on the bill.

Opposition lawmakers threatened a lengthy filibuster to block the controversial reform bill entirely.

A note on using this word

Most associated with the U.S. Senate; as a verb it means to use such a tactic, as in 'filibuster the bill.'

Words with a similar meaning

stalling tacticdelay tactic

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. verb

To use prolonged speech or procedural delay to obstruct a legislative vote.

The minority party vowed to filibuster any attempt to pass the bill without amendments.

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