Filibuster
[/ˈfiləˌbəstər/]
Part of speech: noun
Origin: Dutch/Middle English
1.
A political tactic intended to delay or block legislation
2.
A speech that lasts several hours or even days
Examples of Filibuster in a sentence
"Use of the filibuster has become increasingly controversial."
"Just when it looked like the bill was going to pass, a senator began a filibuster that lasted the entire day."
About Filibuster
Blocking or delaying legislature via filibuster has a lengthy history in American politics. Meaning "pirate" in Dutch, the tactic got its name when it was used to prevent the vote of a bill in the 1850s. Filibusters usually consist of long speeches, readings, or debates seeking to stall and eventually kill off a bill.
Did you Know?
The classic Frank Capra film Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, starring Jimmy Stewart in the title role, ends with a climactic filibuster.
