The word "filibustered" is spelled with three syllables, /ˈfɪ.lɪˌbʌs.tərd/. The initial syllable is stressed and pronounced as "FIH-lih". The second syllable, "bus", rhymes with "us". The third syllable, "terd", is pronounced with a short "uh" sound followed by the consonant cluster "turd". This word refers to a parliamentary tactic used to delay or prevent a vote by speaking for an extended period. The spelling of this word can be challenging due to its multiple syllables, unusual letter combinations, and silent letters.
Filibustered is a verb that refers to the act of intentionally prolonging or obstructing a legislative process, particularly in a deliberative assembly such as a parliament or congress, by making lengthy speeches, raising procedural issues, or engaging in other delaying tactics. This strategy is usually employed by a minority group or individual with the aim of preventing a vote or piece of legislation from being passed.
The term originated from the Dutch word "vrijbuiter," meaning "pirate," and was initially used in the context of maritime piracy. Eventually, it found its way into politics to describe obstructive tactics used to prevent the passage of laws or decisions by an opposing group.
In the context of parliamentary or congressional affairs, to filibuster is to engage in an extended speech or series of speeches, often without relevance to the matter at hand, with the intention of wasting time and preventing progress. Filibustered action can involve tactics such as constant speaking, raising numerous parliamentary inquiries, introducing multiple amendments, or invoking points of order. While filibustering is not restricted to any specific political ideology, it is commonly associated with groups or individuals attempting to block or impede the legislative agenda of the majority.
The impact of filibustering can be significant, as it can delay important decisions and prevent necessary actions. As a result, several parliamentary bodies have implemented rules and procedures to limit or restrict filibustering, aiming to maintain the proper functioning and productivity of their legislative processes.
The word "filibustered" is derived from the word "filibuster". The term comes from the Dutch word "vrijbuiter", which means a "freebooter" or a "pirate". It was later adopted by the English language and transformed into the word "filibuster". Originally, a "filibuster" referred to someone who engages in unauthorized military action or privateering, often for political or personal gain. However, over time, the meaning of "filibuster" evolved, and in modern usage, it refers to a tactic of obstruction, particularly in legislative bodies, where an individual or group seeks to delay or prevent the passage of a law by making lengthy speeches or engaging in other delaying tactics. The verb form "filibustered" is the past tense of "filibuster", specifically used to describe a previous act of engaging in a filibuster.