Filibustered: meaning, definitions and examples

political strategy

To filibuster means to use prolonged speechmaking or other tactics to delay or obstruct legislative action, especially in the context of a parliamentary procedure. This tactic can be employed by a member of the legislature to block a vote on a proposal, bill, or nomination. Filibustering can be seen as a way to draw attention to issues or to prevent unpopular legislation from passing. This strategy is often employed in the U.S. Senate, where a senator can speak for an extended period to delay proceedings.

delay, interrupt, obstruct, stall

Examples of usage

• The senator filibustered for hours to block the vote on the controversial bill.

• They plan to filibuster the nomination to delay the confirmation process.

• In an attempt to filibuster, she read from a children's book.

• The opposition party resorted to filibustering to prevent legislation.