stonewall
UK: ˈstəʊnwɔːl | US: ˈstoʊnwɔːl
vt. to delay or obstruct by refusing to answer questions or cooperate
vi. to engage in obstructive behavior, especially in politics
n. an act or instance of stonewalling
The word "stonewall" originated in the mid-19th century, combining "stone" (from Old English stān, meaning a hard, solid material) and "wall" (from Old English weall, meaning a barrier or structure). Initially, it referred literally to a wall made of stone, but by the late 1800s, it evolved metaphorically to describe stubborn resistance or obstruction, particularly in political contexts. The term gained prominence during the Watergate scandal, where it described deliberate efforts to block investigations.
The senator was accused of stonewalling the investigation by withholding key documents.
During the debate, the candidate stonewalled every question about his financial dealings.
The company’s legal team stonewalled journalists seeking information about the scandal.
Stonewalling tactics often backfire, eroding public trust in institutions.
The witness refused to stonewall and instead provided full cooperation.