Definition

A person who uses prolonged speech or other tactics to delay or prevent a vote in a legislative assembly.

Example

The senator was known as a filibusterer, often speaking for hours to block legislation.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new filibusterer in the Senate?

Yeah, I heard she's making quite a name for herself.

It's interesting how a single filibusterer can change the whole debate.

Absolutely, it really shows the power of one person in politics.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Filibusterer → The word 'filibuster' originates from the Spanish 'filibustero', which means 'pirate' or 'freebooter'. The term was used in the 19th century to describe adventurers who engaged in unauthorized military expeditions. The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs a specific action. Therefore, a 'filibusterer' is a person who engages in the act of filibustering, which originally referred to obstructing legislative action.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'filibusterer' as someone who is like a 'pirate' ('filibustero') in a legislative setting, trying to take control or disrupt the normal flow of proceedings.

Visually Confused Words