What does filibustering mean?
Filibustering refers to the act of obstructing a measure by prolonging debate, often in a legislative body. This tactic is used to delay or block the passage of a bill or amendment. The term is derived from the Latin filibustero, meaning pirate, and is often used in a negative context to imply obstructionism or delaying tactics. Filibustering is commonly used in politics and legislative contexts, and is often associated with senators or representatives who use prolonged debate to stall or block legislation. The use of filibustering can be seen as a form of obstructionism, and is often criticized for hindering the legislative process. Despite its negative connotations, filibustering remains a powerful tool in the legislative arsenal, and is often used to achieve political goals.
nounThe act of obstructing a measure by prolonging debate, often in a legislative body.
- The act of obstructing a measure by prolonging debate, often in a legislative body.
"The senator was accused of filibustering the bill to delay its passage."
"The senator was accused of filibustering the bill to delay its passage."
"The filibustering tactic was used to stall the vote on the amendment."
The plural form is used to describe multiple instances of filibustering, or to describe the actions of multiple individuals who are filibustering.
"The filibusterings of the senator were criticized by his opponents."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of filibustering
The term filibustering originated from the Latin filibustero, meaning pirate, and was later adopted into Italian as filibustiere, also meaning pirate. The term was first used in the 19th century to describe the actions of pirates and privateers in the Caribbean. Over time, the term evolved to describe the act of obstructing a measure by prolonging debate, and is now commonly used in politics and legislative contexts.
Usage notes
Filibustering is often used in a negative context to imply obstructionism or delaying tactics. It is commonly used in politics and legislative contexts.