1. a situation in which no progress can be made; a deadlock
2. a position in chess where a player cannot move without putting their king in check, resulting in a draw
Usage: chess

1. to bring to a standstill; to cause a deadlock

Examples

• The peace negotiations reached a stalemate after months of talks.
• Budget discussions ended in stalemate between the two parties.
• The chess game ended in stalemate when neither player could win.
• Labor disputes often stalemate when both sides refuse to compromise.
• The investigation was stalemated by lack of evidence.
• Political gridlock has stalemated progress on healthcare reform.