1. situations in chess where a player cannot move without putting their king in check, resulting in a draw
Usage: chess terminology
2. situations where no progress can be made; deadlocks

1. brings to a standstill; causes to reach a deadlock

Examples

• The chess match ended in one of the most famous stalemates in tournament history.
• Both armies found themselves in stalemates along the front lines.
• The budget negotiations have resulted in political stalemates for weeks.
• Labor disputes often create stalemates between workers and management.
• The quarterback stalemates the opposing defense with his unpredictable plays.
• Poor communication stalemates many business deals.
• These legal challenges could stalemate the project indefinitely.