Langimage
English

stalemate

|stale/mate|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈsteɪlˌmeɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈsteɪlmeɪt/

deadlock

Etymology
Etymology Information

'stalemate' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'stalemate,' where 'stale' meant 'stalemate' and 'mate' meant 'checkmate.'

Historical Evolution

'stalemate' changed from the Middle English word 'stalemate' and eventually became the modern English word 'stalemate'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a draw in chess,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a deadlock or impasse in any situation.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a situation in chess where a player cannot make any legal move and the game ends in a draw.

The game ended in a stalemate after both players ran out of moves.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to bring to a standstill or deadlock.

Negotiations were stalemated after neither side would compromise.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35