Meaning & Definition of word "Stall"

Stall

/stɔːl/

1. A compartment for animals in a stable or barn.
- Example: The horse was kept in its stall during the storm.
2. A booth or stand where goods are sold, especially in a market.
- Example: She bought fresh vegetables from a stall at the farmer's market.
3. A place for a specific activity, such as a restroom stall.
- Example: He waited for his turn in the restroom stall.

1. To stop or cause to stop temporarily.
- Example: The car began to stall as it climbed the steep hill.
2. To delay or procrastinate.
- Example: She decided to stall for time by asking the teacher more questions.
3. To fail to maintain forward motion, typically in an aircraft.
- Example: The pilot had to recover quickly after the plane began to stall.

Middle English from Old English 'styr' or 'stall' meaning 'place or standing for a horse'

stall for time:

To delay in order to gain time.

stall out:

To cease to function, especially referring to an engine.

play for time:

To use delaying tactics.

stable:

A building for the lodging of horses.

impasse:

A situation in which no progress is possible.

Meaning: To stall someone's plans.

Example Sentence: He stalled my plans by making excuses.

Meaning: Playing for time in a conversation.

Example Sentence: She's just stalling, trying to think of a good answer.