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DictionarystallDeliberate delay
verb / noun

stall

STAWL/stˈɔl/

A stopping of normal operation.

The car stalls at the intersection as its puzzled driver turns the key.

Car engine stalls at intersection, driver turns key puzzled, small dashboard engine icon, vehicle stationary.
Etymology
stallMiddle Englishcome to a stand

“Come to a stand” developed into becoming stuck or unable to move. That loss of motion connects the older verb with bringing progress to a halt or causing an engine to stop running.

In context

Fun Size History5:08
Charles and Belle used their money to stall the trial hoping that everything would just blow over.
Prostitution Barons: The Madams of San Francisco #history

More examples

  • A sudden stall leaves the driver stranded at the intersection.
  • The engine stalls whenever I take my foot off the gas.
  • They stall the negotiations by repeatedly requesting more information.

Forms

stall · stalls · stalled · stalling

Similar words

delay
To postpone action, without necessarily using evasive tactics.
stop
Broader than stall; need not involve an unexpected operational failure.