Stonewallings

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The act of deliberately obstructing or delaying the progress of something, particularly in a discussion or negotiation; using evasive tactics to avoid addressing questions or issues; a strategy employed to prevent resolution or clarity in a situation through inaction or silence
2. Engaging in obstructive behavior during conversations or negotiations to hinder progress; employing tactics that involve evasion and refusal to provide clear answers; implementing a method that ensures stasis and uncertainty in discussions through avoidance
3. The practice of deliberately impeding or stalling proceedings by avoiding direct engagement; applying evasive maneuvers to sidestep accountability or inquiries; a deliberate approach to maintain confusion and delay resolution certain matters

Etymology: "Stonewallings" is the plural of "stonewalling," the gerund-form noun of the verb "stonewall." Its history is best understood through the verb. "Stonewall" has a cricket-like origin in the sense of playing a defensive innings, and its later sense of obstructing or refusing to cooperate grew from the image of a solid wall of stone that cannot be passed or moved, which is why the word now describes evasive tactics designed to block inquiry. Because "stonewalling" is formed from the verb plus the "-ing" ending, it carries the same meaning as the base word, and adding "-s" simply marks the plural. The form names the act itself, so one "stonewalling" is a single episode of obstruction, while several are "stonewallings."