Stonewalled: meaning, definitions and examples
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stonewalled
[ ˈstoʊnˌwɔld ]
obstructive behavior
To stonewall means to refuse to provide information or to cooperate, often in a manner that impedes progress or resolution. This term can be used in a variety of contexts, including political situations, legal proceedings, or personal relationships. Effectively, it describes a strategy where someone avoids answering questions or addressing concerns. Stonewalling can lead to frustration and tension, especially when clear communication is crucial.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The committee accused the witness of stonewalling their inquiries.
- During negotiations, he stonewalled the proposals to gain an advantage.
- Her stonewalling made it difficult to reach an agreement.
Translations
Translations of the word "stonewalled" in other languages:
🇵🇹 obstruído
🇮🇳 अवरोधित
🇩🇪 blockiert
🇮🇩 dihalang-halang
🇺🇦 заблокований
🇵🇱 zablokowany
🇯🇵 妨害された
🇫🇷 bloqué
🇪🇸 bloqueado
🇹🇷 engellenmiş
🇰🇷 차단된
🇸🇦 محجوز
🇨🇿 zablokovaný
🇸🇰 zablokovaný
🇨🇳 被阻碍的
🇸🇮 oviran
🇮🇸 hindruð
🇰🇿 бөгелген
🇬🇪 ბლოკირებული
🇦🇿 məhdudlaşdırılmış
🇲🇽 bloqueado
Etymology
The term 'stonewall' originated from the 19th century in the American political context, often associated with the behavior of certain politicians who would tactically avoid questions or evade discussions to protect themselves or their positions. The word draws on the metaphor of a stone wall, implying a solid and immovable barrier. The earliest recorded use of the term in this manner was in the 1860s. Over time, it has expanded beyond politics and legal contexts into everyday language, where it describes any form of resistance to communication or transparency. Its figurative use underscores the frustration experienced by those attempting to engage in a dialogue, highlighting the adverse effects of such non-communicative behavior.