Meaning & use

stall

verb·Everyday

To stop making progress or functioning, often unintentionally or as a delaying tactic.

See it in a sentence

The negotiations stalled after both sides refused to compromise on price.

The old car stalled twice at the intersection before it finally started again.

A note on using this word

Stall can describe both an unplanned mechanical failure and a deliberate strategy to avoid answering or deciding.

Words with a similar meaning

stagnatedelay

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

Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. noun

A small stand or booth where goods are displayed and sold.

They bought fresh cheese from a stall at the farmers market.

3. noun

A compartment in a stable or barn for housing one animal.

The horse waited patiently in its stall to be fed.

Make it your own

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